Should normal saline be used instead of glucose for oxytocin induction of labour

ABSTRACT

To avoid the higher incidence of hyperbilirubinaemia in the newborn after induction of labour, 5% dextrose was replaced by normal saline as a vehicle lor oxytocin in the intravenous drip. 202 mothers took part in a controlled trial. Results showed significant lowering of cord bilirubin levels when normal saline was used instead of 5% dextrose for this purpose, with no untoward side-effects