Final answer:
The nursing care for a woman on Terbutaline includes monitoring blood pressure and checking serum glucose levels due to potential cardiovascular and metabolic side effects from the drug.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nursing care for a woman with preterm labor on Terbutaline (Brethine) would include various interventions to monitor for potential side effects. Terbutaline is a medication used to relax the muscles in the uterus to delay premature labor. However, it can affect other parts of the body, including the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. Therefore, the critical nursing interventions would be:
- Monitor blood pressure: Since Terbutaline can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, it's important to regularly measure the woman's blood pressure to ensure it remains at a safe level.
- Assess deep tendon reflexes: This intervention is more commonly associated with magnesium sulfate therapy, which is another medication used for preterm labor; however, it could also be relevant if the patient is receiving magnesium sulfate in addition to terbutaline.
- Measure urine output: To assess for adequate kidney function and to monitor for signs of fluid retention.
- Check serum glucose levels: Terbutaline can increase blood sugar levels, so it's important for nursing care to include monitoring of serum glucose to prevent hyperglycemia.
Considering the actions of Terbutaline, monitoring blood pressure and checking serum glucose levels are primary nursing interventions directly related to the side effects of the drug.