What vital sign should be monitored closely during the use of terbutaline?

Monitoring maternal heart rate is crucial during the administration of terbutaline because this medication is a beta-agonist often used for tocolysis in preterm labor. Terbutaline can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to an increase in heart rate. It is known to cause tachycardia in the mother, which can also affect the fetus. By closely monitoring the maternal heart rate, healthcare providers can assess for potential side effects of the medication and make necessary adjustments to ensure both maternal and fetal safety.

While other vital signs like maternal blood pressure, fetal heart rate, and respiratory rate are also important to monitor, the specific action of terbutaline on the maternal heart rate makes it especially relevant in this context. Blood pressure may be variable and not as directly impacted, the fetal heart rate monitoring is crucial but secondary to the immediate effects on the mother, and respiratory rate is less directly affected in comparison to heart rate.