Question

A nurse is observing a patient with severe preeclampsia when the patient begins to have a seizure. The nurse calls for help. Which of the

following is the most critical intervention for the nurse to perform next?

a. Raise side rails and pad them
b. Lower the head of the bed and turn the woman's head to one side
c. Record the time, length, and type of seizure
activity
d. Administer magnesium sulfate per orders

Answer 1

The most critical intervention for the nurse to perform next when a patient with severe preeclampsia begins to have a seizure is to lower the head of the bed and turn the woman's head to one side.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most critical intervention for the nurse to perform next when a patient with severe preeclampsia begins to have a seizure is to lower the head of the bed and turn the woman's head to one side. This position helps to prevent injury and allows for proper drainage of fluids. It also helps to maintain a clear airway and prevent aspiration.

Administering magnesium sulfate per orders (option d) is an important intervention, but it may not be the most critical immediate action during a seizure.

Recording the time, length, and type of seizure activity (option c) is important for documentation and monitoring purposes, but it can be done after ensuring the patient's safety.

Raising side rails and padding them (option a) is a safety measure, but it may not be the most critical intervention in this situation.