RN ATI Maternal Newborn 2023 with NGN Related

Review RN ATI Maternal Newborn 2023 with NGN related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who has preeclampsia and is receiving a continuous infusion of magnesium sulfate IV. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Restrict hourly fluid intake to 150 mL/hr.
  • B. Have calcium gluconate readily available.
  • C. Assess deep tendon reflexes every 6 hr.
  • D. Monitor intake and output every 4 hr.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Have calcium gluconate readily available. Magnesium sulfate IV can cause toxicity leading to respiratory depression and cardiac arrest. Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity as it antagonizes the effects of magnesium on the muscles. Having it readily available ensures prompt treatment in case of toxicity.
Restricting fluid intake (A) is not necessary for preeclampsia and can lead to dehydration. Assessing deep tendon reflexes (C) every 6 hours is important but not as crucial as having the antidote readily available. Monitoring intake and output (D) every 4 hours is important for overall assessment but does not directly address magnesium sulfate toxicity.