A nurse is providing teaching about the expected effects of magnesium sulfate to a client who is at 28 weeks of gestation and has preeclampsia. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
This medication increases cardiac output
This medication stabilizes the fetal heart rate
The medication improves tissue perfusion
The medication prevents seizures
The Correct Answer is D
A. This medication increases cardiac output: Magnesium sulfate does not typically increase cardiac output. Its primary role in the context of preeclampsia is to prevent seizures and manage hypertension.
B. This medication stabilizes the fetal heart rate: While magnesium sulfate can have a relaxing effect on the uterus, which might indirectly influence fetal heart rate, its primary purpose in preeclampsia is seizure prevention rather than fetal heart rate stabilization.
C. The medication improves tissue perfusion: Magnesium sulfate primarily functions as an anticonvulsant and tocolytic (relaxes the uterus). While its effects on vasodilation can contribute to improved blood flow, the primary indication in preeclampsia is seizure prevention.
D. The medication prevents seizures
Magnesium sulfate is commonly used in the management of preeclampsia to prevent seizures (eclampsia), a serious complication of the condition. It has anticonvulsant properties and is the primary medication for seizure prophylaxis in pregnant individuals with preeclampsia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Move the client onto their hands and knees: This position is often used for the Gaskin maneuver, which involves positioning the mother on all fours to help resolve shoulder dystocia. However, the McRoberts maneuver specifically requires hyperflexing the legs toward the abdomen.
B. Press firmly on the client’s suprapubic area: This action is not part of the McRoberts maneuver. It is not the recommended technique for resolving shoulder dystocia.
C. Assist the client in pulling their knees toward their abdomen
The McRoberts maneuver involves hyperflexing the mother's legs toward her abdomen to widen the pelvic outlet. This repositions the pelvis, which can assist in dislodging the impacted shoulder of the baby during a shoulder dystocia.
D. Apply pressure to the client’s fundus: Applying pressure to the fundus can sometimes be used in other obstetric emergencies but is not part of the McRoberts maneuver for shoulder dystocia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fetal heart rate 152/min: Fetal heart rate is not typically considered an adverse effect of epidural analgesia. The focus of epidural analgesia is on providing pain relief for the mother rather than directly affecting the fetal heart rate.
B. Hypotension: Hypotension (low blood pressure) is a common adverse effect of epidural analgesia. Epidural anesthesia can cause vasodilation, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. The nurse should monitor the client's blood pressure closely and administer interventions as needed, such as IV fluids or medications to address hypotension.
C. Polyuria: Polyuria (excessive urination) is not a direct adverse effect of epidural analgesia. Epidural analgesia primarily affects pain sensation rather than urinary function.
D. Maternal temperature of 37.4 C (99.4 F): A slightly elevated maternal temperature is not a common adverse effect of epidural analgesia. However, the nurse should monitor for signs of infection or other complications and report any significant temperature changes to the healthcare provider.
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