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The nurse is monitoring a patient with severe preeclampsia who is on IV magnesium sulfate. Which signs of magnesium toxicity should the nurse monitor for? (Select all that apply.)

  • A. Cool, clammy skin
  • B. Altered sensorium
  • C. Pulse oximeter reading of 95%
  • D. Respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The signs of magnesium toxicity that the nurse should monitor for in a patient with severe preeclampsia on IV magnesium sulfate include an altered sensorium (confusion, lethargy, slurred speech) and a respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute. Altered sensorium is a common symptom of magnesium toxicity, reflecting the drug's central nervous system depressant effects. A decreased respiratory rate can indicate respiratory depression, a potentially serious complication of magnesium toxicity. Monitoring for these signs is crucial to promptly identifying and managing magnesium toxicity in patients on magnesium sulfate therapy. Signs such as cool, clammy skin and a pulse oximeter reading of 95% would not be indicative of magnesium toxicity.