A nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving magnesium sulfate for severe preeclampsia. The client asks, "How will I know if the medication is working?" Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
"We will monitor your blood pressure to see if it decreases."
"We will check for a reduction in swelling and fluid retention."
"We will assess for a decrease in seizure activity and improved reflexes."
"You should feel less pain and have fewer headaches."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "We will monitor your blood pressure to see if it decreases."
While magnesium sulfate may have a mild antihypertensive effect, it is not primarily given to lower blood pressure; antihypertensives are used for that purpose.
B. "We will check for a reduction in swelling and fluid retention."
Edema in preeclampsia is due to capillary leakage and kidney dysfunction, not directly affected by magnesium sulfate.
C. "We will assess for a decrease in seizure activity and improved reflexes."
Magnesium sulfate is used primarily as a seizure prophylaxis in preeclampsia by stabilizing the central nervous system and reducing hyperreflexia and clonus, which are signs of worsening preeclampsia.
D. "You should feel less pain and have fewer headaches."
While magnesium sulfate can improve symptoms, it is not an analgesic and does not directly relieve pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "There is an increased risk of introducing infection." – While infections can occur, the primary concern with internal examinations in placenta previa is hemorrhage rather than infection.
B. "There is an increased risk of rupture of the membranes." – While membrane rupture is a risk with any vaginal examination, it is not the primary concern in placenta previa.
C. "This could result in profound bleeding." – With placenta previa, the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. Digital or speculum exams can disrupt the placenta, causing significant hemorrhage, which is why they are contraindicated.
D. "This could initiate preterm labor." – While stimulation of the cervix could lead to contractions, the primary risk with an internal exam in placenta previa is significant bleeding, not preterm labor.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "The recommendation for you is about 15 to 25 pounds."
This recommendation is appropriate for clients who are overweight (BMI 25–29.9), not those with a normal BMI.
B. "A gain of about 25 to 35 pounds is recommended for you."
A BMI of 23.5 falls within the normal range (18.5–24.9). The recommended total weight gain for clients with a normal BMI is 25–35 lbs (11.3–15.9 kg) during pregnancy to support fetal growth and maternal health.
C. "A gain of about 1 pound per week is the best pattern for you."
While the recommended weight gain in the second and third trimesters is about 1 lb/week, total weight gain is individualized based on pre-pregnancy BMI.
D. "It would be best if you gained about 11 to 20 pounds."
This is the recommendation for obese clients (BMI ≥30), not those with a normal BMI.
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