How frequently should oxytocin be increased during labor?

The recommended frequency for increasing oxytocin during labor is every 30 to 60 minutes. This interval allows for adequate monitoring of the laboring patient and the fetal heart rate response to the increased levels of oxytocin, ensuring that any necessary adjustments can be made in a timely manner. It is important to observe for uterine contractions and fetal response to prevent overstimulation, which can lead to hyperstimulation of the uterus or fetal distress. Increasing the dose too frequently could lead to complications, so adhering to the 30 to 60-minute interval provides a balance between effective labor progression and maternal and fetal safety.