Final answer:
The nurse should instruct the client to report any incidence of diarrhea while on oral magnesium sulfate, as it is a common side effect that can worsen hypomagnesemia. Contrary to avoiding greens and whole grains, these foods should be consumed as they are rich in magnesium and support the restoration of normal magnesium levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Magnesium Sulfate Education for Hypomagnesemia
When instructing a client who is prescribed oral magnesium sulfate for severe hypomagnesemia, the nurse needs to provide accurate information about diet and side effects. In particular, the nurse should inform the client to report diarrhoea while taking this medication, as magnesium can cause gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea is a common side effect that could exacerbate magnesium loss. Conversely, advice such as avoiding green leafy vegetables is incorrect, as these are rich in magnesium and beneficial for restoring magnesium levels. Similarly, the elimination of whole grains should not be recommended since they too are a good source of magnesium. Thiazide diuretics could lead to further magnesium depletion and should not be taken unless specifically prescribed for another condition.
Magnesium is an essential mineral important for many body functions, including blood glucose control, protein synthesis, and nerve function. It is naturally present in foods like milk, eggs, cabbage, and cauliflower. The daily requirement for magnesium is 100-150 mg for infants, 150-200 mg for children, and 200-300 mg for adults. A multitude of health issues, such as insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and complications in obesity can be associated with low magnesium levels.