A client is diagnosed with preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate IV for seizure prophylaxis.
The nurse should monitor which of the following laboratory values?
Serum magnesium level
Serum potassium level
Serum sodium level
Serum calcium level
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A) Serum magnesium level. Magnesium sulfate is a mineral that reduces seizure risks in women with preeclampsia. It is often given intravenously and can also be used to prolong pregnancy for up to two days. However, magnesium sulfate can also cause side effects and toxicity, such as respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and cardiac arrest. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the serum magnesium level to ensure that it is within the therapeutic range of 4 to 7 mg/dL.
Choice B) Serum potassium level is wrong because magnesium sulfate does not affect the potassium level significantly.
Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates the nerve and muscle function, especially the heart.
The normal range of potassium level is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.
Choice C) Serum sodium level is wrong because magnesium sulfate does not affect the sodium level significantly.
Sodium is another electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and blood pressure.
The normal range of sodium level is 135 to 145 mEq/L.
Choice D) Serum calcium level is wrong because magnesium sulfate does not affect the calcium level significantly.
Calcium is a mineral that is important for bone health, blood clotting, and muscle contraction.
The normal range of calcium level is 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Have calcium gluconate available at the bedside as an antidote.Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent and treat seizures in women with severe preeclampsia or eclampsia.However, it can also cause toxicity and respiratory depression if the serum level is too high.Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity and should be readily available at the bedside.
Choice A is wrong because the medication should be administered over 20-30 minutes using an infusion pump.
A shorter infusion time may increase the risk of adverse effects.
Choice B is wrong because the client should be placed in a lateral position to improve uteroplacental perfusion and reduce the risk of aspiration.
Choice C is wrong because the client’s blood pressure should be monitored every 5 minutes during the infusion, not every 15 minutes.
Blood pressure is an indicator of the severity of preeclampsia and the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate therapy.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, C and D.These interventions can help prevent or delay the development of preeclampsia by reducing blood pressure, monitoring fetal well-being and assessing for signs of worsening condition.
Choice B is wrong because corticosteroids are not used to prevent preeclampsia, but to enhance fetal lung maturity in case of preterm delivery.
Choice E is wrong because a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates is not recommended for gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.A balanced diet with adequate calcium, magnesium and antioxidants is advised.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.