The client at 25 weeks gestation in preterm labor has developed pre-eclampsia.
After receiving Nifedipine to stop her contractions, she is started on magnesium sulfate to control her pre-eclampsia.
When assessing the client, which findings by the nurse indicate that the client is experiencing an adverse effect from the magnesium sulfate? (Select all that apply).
Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute.
Blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg.
Lung crackles.
Increase in fetal heart rate.
Deep tendon reflexes.
Confusion.
Urine output of 30 mL in 2 hours.
Correct Answer : A,F,G
Choice A rationale
Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a serious adverse effect of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can depress neuromuscular transmission, leading to decreased respiratory effort and rate.
Choice B rationale
Blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg is not indicative of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Elevated blood pressure is a symptom of pre-eclampsia and not directly related to the adverse effects of magnesium sulfate. Therefore, it does not indicate toxicity.
Choice C rationale
Lung crackles are typically associated with fluid overload or heart failure rather than magnesium sulfate toxicity. While it is a serious condition, it is not specifically an adverse effect of magnesium sulfate.
Choice D rationale
Increase in fetal heart rate is not a common adverse effect of magnesium sulfate. Fetal heart rate changes are more commonly related to the underlying maternal condition or other medications used in pregnancy rather than magnesium sulfate.
Choice E rationale
Deep tendon reflexes would typically be decreased or absent in magnesium sulfate toxicity. Therefore, presence of deep tendon reflexes would not indicate an adverse effect of magnesium sulfate.
Choice F rationale
Confusion can occur due to central nervous system depression caused by high levels of magnesium sulfate. This is a significant adverse effect indicating possible toxicity.
Choice G rationale
Urine output of 30 mL in 2 hours suggests oliguria, which can be a sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity as the drug is excreted through the kidneys. Reduced urine output can indicate the kidneys are not clearing the drug efficiently, leading to toxicity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Administer antihypertensive medication as prescribed - The client's blood pressure is elevated, and managing hypertension is crucial to prevent complications.
B. Initiate continuous fetal monitoring - The client is experiencing symptoms that could indicate preeclampsia, and continuous monitoring is essential to assess fetal well-being.
C. Monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity - Given the client's symptoms and lab results, monitoring for magnesium toxicity is important, especially if magnesium sulfate is being used for seizure prophylaxis.
D. Perform a vaginal exam to assess cervical status - This intervention is not a priority at this moment given the client's condition and the need to avoid unnecessary interventions that could cause stress or complications.
E. Assess for signs of placental abruption - Although the client denies vaginal bleeding, it's important to monitor for any signs of placental abruption due to her symptoms and hypertension.
Correct Answer is ["A","F","G"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a serious adverse effect of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can depress neuromuscular transmission, leading to decreased respiratory effort and rate.
Choice B rationale
Blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg is not indicative of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Elevated blood pressure is a symptom of pre-eclampsia and not directly related to the adverse effects of magnesium sulfate. Therefore, it does not indicate toxicity.
Choice C rationale
Lung crackles are typically associated with fluid overload or heart failure rather than magnesium sulfate toxicity. While it is a serious condition, it is not specifically an adverse effect of magnesium sulfate.
Choice D rationale
Increase in fetal heart rate is not a common adverse effect of magnesium sulfate. Fetal heart rate changes are more commonly related to the underlying maternal condition or other medications used in pregnancy rather than magnesium sulfate.
Choice E rationale
Deep tendon reflexes would typically be decreased or absent in magnesium sulfate toxicity. Therefore, presence of deep tendon reflexes would not indicate an adverse effect of magnesium sulfate.
Choice F rationale
Confusion can occur due to central nervous system depression caused by high levels of magnesium sulfate. This is a significant adverse effect indicating possible toxicity.
Choice G rationale
Urine output of 30 mL in 2 hours suggests oliguria, which can be a sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity as the drug is excreted through the kidneys. Reduced urine output can indicate the kidneys are not clearing the drug efficiently, leading to toxicity.
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.