Question

The nurse explains to a group of nursing students how magnesium sulfate treats severe preeclampsia. Which response by a student indicates effective teaching?

a. "It blocks neuromuscular transmissions".
b. "It provides analgesia for the client in labor".
c. "It increases the quantity of acetylcholine."
d. "It improves the quality of uterine contractions".

Answer 1

Magnesium sulfate is used to treat severe preeclampsia by blocking neuromuscular transmissions, acting as a calcium antagonist, and preventing seizures.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct response that indicates effective teaching about the use of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of severe preeclampsia is "It blocks neuromuscular transmissions." Magnesium sulfate is commonly used in obstetrics for the prevention and treatment of seizures in women with preeclampsia or eclampsia. Its primary action is as a calcium antagonist, which promotes smooth muscle relaxation by decreasing the amount of calcium available inside cells and blocking neuromuscular transmission, thereby preventing seizures associated with preeclampsia.

Magnesium sulfate does not primarily provide analgesia, increase acetylcholine, or improve the quality of uterine contractions. These functions are associated with different substances and mechanisms such as oxytocin and prostaglandins, which are involved in the induction and maintenance of labor. Therefore, answer option 'a' is the most accurate representation of the pharmacological action of magnesium sulfate in this clinical context.