Tocolytic therapy for the prevention of preterm labor

The focus on treatment for preterm labor lies in risk screening, assessment, patient education, and the use of various tocolytic drug regimens. In years past, preterm labor patients were treated in the hospital with IV tocolytic drug therapies. However, patients can now receive oral subcutaneous tocolytics while remaining in their own homes. Modern technology allows for some women to be monitored daily for changes in uterine contraction activity without hospitalization. Nurses play an integral role in providing home care and education to these patients who comply with lifestyle changes to prolong the pregnancy toward term gestation.