Question

A nurse is assessing a client following the administration of magnesium sulfate 1g IV bolus. For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

A) Hypertension
B) Hyperkalemia
C) Respiratory depression
D) Bradycardia

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor for respiratory depression after administration of a magnesium sulfate 1g IV bolus; this drug can suppress neuromuscular function and affect breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assessing a client after the administration of magnesium sulfate 1g IV bolus should monitor for respiratory depression as an adverse effect. Magnesium sulfate, when given in high doses, can suppress the neuromuscular function, which can lead to decreased respiratory function. This can be characterized by a decrease in the respiratory rate, shallow breathing, or in severe cases, respiratory paralysis. While magnesium sulfate does not typically cause hypertension, hyperkalemia, or bradycardia, these conditions could still emerge due to other concurrent factors or underlying conditions in the patient. Therefore, it's critical for ongoing monitoring of vital signs and the patient's overall clinical picture during and after administration of magnesium sulfate.