Maternal Monitoring During Labor Related

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What is the purpose of administering magnesium sulfate during preterm labor?

  • A. to relax the uterus and prevent contractions
  • B. to improve fetal oxygenation and reduce uterine activity
  • C. to reduce the risk of seizures and cerebral hemorrhage
  • D. to decrease blood pressure and reduce fetal stress
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: to reduce the risk of seizures and cerebral hemorrhage. Magnesium sulfate is used during preterm labor to prevent and treat seizures in women with preeclampsia and eclampsia. It acts as a neuroprotective agent by preventing cerebral vasoconstriction and reducing the risk of cerebral hemorrhage. The other choices are incorrect because magnesium sulfate does not primarily relax the uterus to prevent contractions (A), improve fetal oxygenation (B), or decrease blood pressure (D) during preterm labor.