Which route of administration should a nurse plan when administering terbutaline to a client in preterm labor?

When administering terbutaline to a client in preterm labor, the appropriate route is subcutaneous. This method allows for rapid absorption and onset of action, which is particularly important in the context of managing preterm labor. Subcutaneous administration is often preferred for tocolytic agents like terbutaline because it can provide effective muscular relaxation of the uterus while limiting systemic side effects when compared to intravenous administration.

Administering terbutaline subcutaneously allows for a more gradual transition of medication into the bloodstream, which can help in managing the mother's response and monitoring for any potential side effects, such as tachycardia or hyperglycemia. This route also makes it easier to provide repeat doses if needed, as the injection can be given in different sites to reduce local tissue irritation.

In contrast, while intravenous administration can offer a quick response, it may also lead to more pronounced systemic effects, making it less ideal in this scenario where careful monitoring is critical to balance the medication's benefits against potential side effects. Oral administration is not suitable for terbutaline in this acute setting, as it takes longer to reach therapeutic levels, and intramuscular routes are less commonly utilized for this specific indication due to variability in absorption.