Question

The nurse is caring for a client receiving magnesium sulfate for treatment of preeclampsia. Which finding alerts the nurse to signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity? SATA:

a. Proteinuria
b. Epigastric Pain
c. Loss of patellar reflexes
d. Urine output of 40 mL/h
e. Respirations of 10 breaths/min

Answer 1

The nurse should be alert for signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity, which include loss of patellar reflexes, low urine output, and low respiratory rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should be alert for signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity in a client receiving treatment for preeclampsia. The findings that indicate magnesium sulfate toxicity include:

• Loss of patellar reflexes: Magnesium sulfate affects neuromuscular function and can lead to the loss of reflexes.
• Urine output of 40 mL/hr: Decreased urine output suggests impaired renal function, which can be a sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity.
• Respirations of 10 breaths/min: Low respiratory rate indicates respiratory depression, which can be caused by excessive magnesium sulfate.

Other findings mentioned in the options like proteinuria, epigastric pain, and low urine output may be associated with preeclampsia itself but are not specific signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity.