Comanagement of the patient on subcutaneous terbutaline pump therapy

The subcutaneous terbutaline pump is a new modality available for pharmacologic treatment of preterm labor. Because nurse-midwives may be involved in the care of women on this therapy, an overview of terbutaline pharmacology, pump development, and advantages versus disadvantages of this therapy is provided. Initiation of therapy in the appropriate patient is described. Outpatient therapy is the goal for these women, and the nurse-midwife may appropriately comanage this aspect of care. Guidelines are presented for physical and psychosocial care.