A woman is receiving magnesium sulfate as part of her treatment for severe preeclampsia. The nurse is monitoring the woman's serum magnesium levels. The nurse determines that the drug is at a therapeutic level based on which result?
8.4 mEq/L
6.1 mEq/L
10.8 mEq/L
3.3 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is B
A. 8.4 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range and may indicate magnesium toxicity. Levels greater than 7.5–8 mEq/L can lead to loss of deep tendon reflexes, and higher levels can cause respiratory depression and cardiac arrest.
B. 6.1 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range for magnesium sulfate when used to treat severe preeclampsia, which is generally 4.8–8.4 mEq/L (or 4–7 mEq/L depending on the source and unit of measurement). This level is considered safe and effective for preventing seizures.
C. 10.8 mEq/L is too high and indicates magnesium toxicity, placing the patient at risk for serious complications like respiratory or cardiac arrest.
D. 3.3 mEq/L is below the therapeutic range, suggesting that the dose may be inadequate to prevent eclamptic seizures in a woman with severe preeclampsia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Clear liquid diet may be appropriate later in treatment once symptoms improve, but it is not typically initiated immediately in a client with severe hyperemesis gravidarum, especially if they are unable to keep any fluids down.
B. Administration of labetalol is used to treat hypertension, particularly in preeclampsia, and is not related to the treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum.
C. Small frequent meals are part of long-term management or mild cases, but for severe hyperemesis gravidarum requiring hospitalization, oral intake is usually withheld initially.
D. Nothing by mouth (NPO) is correct. In severe hyperemesis gravidarum, the client is often kept NPO to rest the gastrointestinal tract and prevent further vomiting. Intravenous (IV) fluids, electrolytes, and sometimes antiemetic medications are administered to manage dehydration and nutritional deficits before gradually resuming oral intake.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Evidence that the newborn is becoming chilled would typically include signs such as cool skin, mottling, or acrocyanosis ,not active behaviors like head movement and eye contact.
B. A good time to initiate breast-feeding is correct. The described behaviors ,eye contact, head movement, and tongue thrusting, are characteristic of the first period of reactivity, which occurs within the first 30 minutes after birth. During this time, the newborn is alert, responsive, and exhibits strong rooting and sucking reflexes, making it an ideal window to begin breastfeeding.
C. The period of decreased responsiveness preceding sleep typically occurs after the first period of reactivity and is marked by reduced activity and interest in feeding, not alert behaviors.
D. A sign that the infant is being overstimulated would usually involve signs like gaze aversion, hiccupping, or flailing ,not purposeful movements or eye contact.
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.
