What class of medications would the nurse expect to teach a client admitted in preterm labor?

In the context of preterm labor, the primary focus of treatment is to relax the uterus and reduce contractions to delay delivery. Beta-adrenergic medications, such as terbutaline, are often used as tocolytics for this purpose. They work by stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors, which leads to the relaxation of uterine smooth muscle, thus hindering contractions and helping to prolong the pregnancy safely.

The use of prostaglandin analogs is typically associated with inducing labor rather than inhibiting it. These medications are utilized to ripen the cervix and initiate labor when it is appropriate to do so, making them less relevant in the context of preterm labor management.

Calcium channel blockers also have a role in managing contractions during preterm labor, as they can relax smooth muscle. However, beta-adrenergic agents are more commonly the first-line medication for this specific situation.

Opioid analgesics are primarily used for pain management and do not address the underlying issue of contraction and labor progression. Therefore, teaching about beta-adrenergic medications would be the most appropriate focus for a client in preterm labor, as these medications directly target the need to halt contractions and prolong gestation.