Final answer:
Oxytocin is administered to postpartum clients to help with uterine contractions and reduce bleeding. It can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
Oxytocin and Postpartum
Oxytocin is a hormone that is administered to clients who are postpartum to help with uterine contractions. It stimulates the muscles in the uterus, causing contractions that help expel the placenta and reduce bleeding. Oxytocin also helps with milk ejection from the breasts.
However, administering oxytocin can have some side effects. It can increase heart rate and blood pressure, as well as elevate respiratory rate. These are normal physiological responses to the increased contractions and increased blood flow during childbirth.