What is the oxytocin dosing in the postpartum hemorrhage protocol?

• A. 10 Units IM Lateral Thigh
• B. 5 Units IV
• C. 20 Units IM
• D. 1 Unit IM

Answer: (A)

Oxytocin is the first-line drug used to stimulate uterine contractions and control postpartum hemorrhage from uterine atony. The standard initial dose is 10 units given intramuscularly into the lateral thigh (vastus lateralis) because this site allows reliable absorption and a rapid onset of action. Other options—5 units IV, 20 units IM, or 1 unit IM—do not match the typical initial management dose and route, which is why the 10-unit IM dose into the lateral thigh is the best choice. If bleeding persists, the protocol may call for additional uterotonics or IV oxytocin in a continuous infusion, but the stated dosing focuses on this initial 10-unit IM administration.