A 30-year-old primigravida at 40 weeks is induced with oxytocin after amniotomy. She has adequate contractions (200 Montevideo units) for 8 hours but the cervix remains 4 cm dilated with no change. Fetal heart rate is normal. What is the most appropriate diagnosis?
- A Failed induction of labor ✓
- B Prolonged latent phase
- C Active phase arrest
- D Uterine hyperstimulation
Correct answer: A. Failed induction of labor
Explanation
Failed induction is defined as the inability to achieve regular contractions and cervical change after 6 to 8 hours of oxytocin with ruptured membranes. Prolonged latent phase is a time-based diagnosis without reference to induction. Active phase arrest requires a cervical dilation of at least 6 cm. Uterine hyperstimulation would present with tachysystole, not a lack of progress.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 25th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.