Effect of saline and glucose infusions of oxytocin on neonatal bilirubin levels
Omigbodun, A.O.; Akindele, J.A.; Osotimehin, B.O.; Fatinikun, T.; Fajimi, J.L.; Adeleye, J.A.
International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics the Official Organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics 40(3): 235-239
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0020-7292 PMID: 8096475 DOI: 10.1016/0020-7292(93)90836-lDocument Number: 326820
Objective: To ascertain the effect of isotonic saline and glucose infusions of oxytocin on neonatal bilirubin levels. Method: Eighty-two parturient Nigerian women requiring oxytocin infusion in labor were randomized into two groups receiving 0.9% saline or 5% glucose, respectively. A group of 82 women not requiring oxytocin were recruited for comparison. All had sodium and bilirubin estimations in cord plasma and neonatal bilirubin assay on Day 3. Results: Analysis of variance revealed higher mean cord and neonatal bilirubin levels in the glucose group compared with the other two (P lt 0.05). Significant inverse correlation was observed between cord plasma sodium and neonatal bilirubin levels in all groups. Hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 55% of babies in the glucose group compared with 21% and 22% in the saline and control groups, respectively (P lt 0.001). Conclusion: The use of isotonic saline rather than 5% glucose solution as vehicle for oxytocin infusion in labor appears to be associated with lower neonatal bilirubin levels.