Final answer:
Magnesium sulfate was increased to prevent convulsions (option b), particularly in conditions like pre-eclampsia or eclampsia during pregnancy. It stabilizes nerve and muscle excitability to prevent seizures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The explanation that the RN should provide to Ashley for the increase in magnesium sulfate is to prevent convulsions. Magnesium sulfate is a medication often used in the treatment of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, which are conditions that can occur during pregnancy and are characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine.
One of the serious complications of these conditions is the development of convulsions, or seizures, which magnesium sulfate helps to prevent. This treatment is not primarily intended to reduce blood pressure, aid in digestion, or alleviate pain, although magnesium has been shown to help lower blood pressure by reducing sodium retention and participating in the control of blood pressure alongside calcium and potassium.
Magnesium sulfate's role in preventing convulsions is based on its ability to stabilize the excitability of nerves and muscles, thus preventing the onset of seizures that are associated with severe forms of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.