A client taking magnesium sulfate has a respiratory rate of 10 ...

[Haya94]

A client taking magnesium sulfate has a respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min. In addition to discontinuing the medication, which action should the nurse take?
 
  a. Increase the client's IV fluids.
  b. Administer calcium gluconate.
  c. Vigorously stimulate the client.
  d. Instruct the client to take deep breaths.

Question 2

Which assessment in a client diagnosed with preeclampsia who is taking magnesium sulfate would indicate a therapeutic level of medication?
 
  a. Drowsiness
  b. Urinary output of 20 mL/hr
  c. Normal deep tendon reflexes
  d. Respiratory rate of 10 to 12 breaths/min

[jharrington11]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Calcium gluconate reverses the effects of magnesium sulfate. Increasing the client's IV fluids will not reverse the effects of the medication. Stimulation will not increase the respirations. Deep breaths will not be successful in reversing the effects of the magnesium sulfate.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Magnesium sulfate is administered for preeclampsia to reduce the risk of seizures from cerebral irritability. Hyperreflexia (deep tendon reflexes above normal) is a symptom of cerebral irritability. If the dosage of magnesium sulfate is effective, reflexes should decrease to normal or slightly below normal levels. Drowsiness is another sign of CNS depression from magnesium toxicity. A urinary output of 20 mL/hr is not adequate output. A respiratory rate of 10 to 12 breaths/min is too slow and could be indicative of magnesium toxicity.

[Haya94]

Correct answers!

[jharrington11]

Great! Please up vote