After the placenta has been expelled, Pitocin (oxytocin) is started at a concentration of 10 units in 1000 mL Lactated Ringer's. You know this is given at this time to:

• A. Stimulate uterine contractions
• B. Prevent neonatal infection
• C. Lower blood pressure
• D. Delay placental separation

Answer: (A)

After the placenta is expelled, the uterus must contract firmly to clamp down on blood vessels and prevent heavy bleeding. Oxytocin (Pitocin) stimulates uterine smooth muscle contractions, helping the uterus regain tone (involution) and reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. The 10 units in 1000 mL Lactated Ringer’s provides a steady, controlled infusion to maintain this contraction and uterine firmness.

This choice isn’t about preventing neonatal infection, lowering maternal blood pressure, or delaying placental separation; those are not the goals of postpartum oxytocin administration.