The perinatal nurse knows that tocolytic agents are most often used to do which of the following? ...

ANS: A, B
Presently, it is believed that the best reason to use tocolytic drugs is to allow an opportunity to begin the administration of maternal antenatal corticosteroids to accelerate fetal lung maturity. In addition, delaying the preterm birth provides time for maternal transport to a facility that is equipped with a neonatal intensive care unit. Tocolytics themselves do not prevent the development of respiratory complications such as respiratory distress syndrome. Tocoytic agents do not prevent infection and are recommended for use only up to 48 hours.