ATI Capstone Class Exam Week 12 Related

Review ATI Capstone Class Exam Week 12 related questions and content

A nurse is preparing to administer magnesium sulfate to a client. Which of the following is the priority nursing assessment for this client?

  • A. Bowel sounds
  • B. Respiratory rate
  • C. Temperature
  • D. Fetal heart rate (FHR)
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Respiratory rate. Magnesium sulfate is a medication that can cause respiratory depression. Monitoring the client's respiratory rate is crucial to detect any signs of respiratory distress or depression promptly. This assessment is a priority because respiratory depression can lead to serious complications, including respiratory arrest. Assessing bowel sounds (choice A), temperature (choice C), and fetal heart rate (choice D) are important but not as critical as monitoring the respiratory rate when administering magnesium sulfate. Bowel sounds may indicate gastrointestinal motility issues, temperature changes may indicate infection, and fetal heart rate is important in pregnancy but not the priority when administering magnesium sulfate.