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 A
Explanation
A. By 12 days postpartum, the fundus should be about 2 cm below the umbilicus, as the uterus is returning to its pre-pregnancy size. This is a normal finding at this stage of postpartum recovery.
B. At 12 days postpartum, the fundus should still be palpable, though it will be much lower than in the immediate postpartum period.
C. This is too low for 12 days postpartum. The fundus should not descend this far yet.
D. Halfway below the umbilicus would be expected around 7-10 days postpartum, but by 12 days, the fundus should be about 2 cm below the umbilicus, indicating more involution.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Lochia is the normal postpartum vaginal discharge of blood and tissue, and its duration or volume is not affected by Kegel exercises.
B. Uterine involution ,the shrinking of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size ,is a natural physiological process and is not influenced by Kegel exercises.
C. Kegel exercises specifically target the pelvic floor muscles, which may be weakened during pregnancy and childbirth. These exercises help strengthen the muscles, support pelvic organs, and prevent issues such as urinary incontinence.
D. While improved muscle tone may eventually support healing, these exercises are not a direct method for pain relief.
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.
