What is the first-line medication administered routinely for active management of the third stage of labor to prevent postpartum hemorrhage?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Oxytocin (10 IU IM or IV infusion)
- Step 1: Prophylactic administration of oxytocin (10 IU IM or slow IV infusion) immediately following the delivery of the infant is the global standard of care for active management of the third stage of labor.
- Step 2: It stimulates rhythmic myometrial contractions and significantly reduces the incidence of PPH.
Answer
Oxytocin (10 IU IM or IV infusion).
Why not the others: 'Methylergonovine intramuscularly' is a second-line agent contraindicated in hypertensive women; 'Carboprost tromethamine (PGF2-alpha)' is a second-line agent contraindicated in asthma; 'Misoprostol orally 800 mcg' is reserved for low-resource settings where parenteral oxytocin and refrigeration are unavailable.
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