Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Test with focused study methods including flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Practice with hints and detailed explanations to boost your readiness for the exam.

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What effect does oxytocin have during pregnancy?

  1. Decreases blood pressure

  2. Increases heart rate

  3. Stimulates uterine smooth muscle contraction

  4. Promotes fat storage

The correct answer is: Stimulates uterine smooth muscle contraction

Oxytocin plays a crucial role during pregnancy by stimulating uterine smooth muscle contraction. This hormone is released in increasing amounts as pregnancy progresses and is especially significant during labor, where it facilitates rhythmical contractions of the uterus. These contractions help to effectively dilate the cervix and push the baby through the birth canal during delivery. While other physiological effects occur during pregnancy, such as changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and metabolism, the primary and most notable effect of oxytocin in this context is its role in promoting uterine contractions, thus directly contributing to the labor process.