What it means
Shorthand sometimes used for oxytocinok-sih-TOH-sinA hormone that makes the uterus contract and releases breast milk; also given by IV to start or strengthen labor and control bleeding after birth.Full entry , the hormone given to start or strengthen labor contractions and to control bleeding after birth. ISMP lists OXY as error-prone because it has been mistaken for oxyCODONE or OxyCONTIN, opioid pain drugs. IV oxytocin is also on ISMP's high-alert list.
For the nurse
Write "oxytocin" in full, and clarify any order that uses OXY.
Related terms
oxycodone
An opioid pain medicine taken by mouth, as quick-acting or long-acting tablets.
oxytocin
A hormone that makes the uterus contract and releases breast milk; also given by IV to start or strengthen labor and control bleeding after birth.
PIT
An abbreviation for Pitocin (oxytocin); ISMP advises writing the full drug name.