Which of the following is a component of active management of III stage of labor?
**Core Concept**
Active management of the third stage of labor (AMTSL) is a set of interventions aimed at preventing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) by reducing blood loss and promoting uterine contraction. It involves a combination of uterotonic administration, controlled cord traction, and uterine massage.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is a uterotonic agent, specifically oxytocin or ergometrine, which stimulates uterine contractions to reduce blood loss and promote placental separation. Oxytocin works by binding to oxytocin receptors on the myometrium, triggering an increase in intracellular calcium and subsequent contraction of uterine smooth muscle.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not address the primary goal of AMTSL, which is to prevent PPH. While it may be a component of postpartum care, it is not a critical intervention in the third stage of labor.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a recognized component of AMTSL. While it may be related to postpartum care, it is not directly relevant to the third stage of labor.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a medication typically used in AMTSL. While it may be used for other purposes in obstetrics, it is not a standard component of active management of the third stage of labor.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
To remember the components of AMTSL, use the mnemonic "3Cs": Controlled Cord Traction, Uterotonic administration (such as oxytocin or ergometrine), and Uterine massage.
**Correct Answer: D. Oxytocin or ergometrine**