Final answer:
In case of hypermagnesemia indicated by a magnesium level of 3.1 meq, the nurse would prepare to administer calcium gluconate and loop diuretics like furosemide to lower the magnesium levels, and monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for a client with a magnesium level of 3.1 meq is dealing with a situation of hypermagnesemia, as the normal range for magnesium is typically between 1.7 and 2.2 meq/L. For this condition, the nurse should expect to administer medications that would lower magnesium levels. These may include calcium gluconate, which can help counteract the effects of high magnesium on the heart, and loop diuretics like furosemide to increase renal excretion of magnesium. In more severe cases, dialysis might be required. Treatment for hypermagnesemia is usually done cautiously to avoid rapid decline in magnesium levels that could lead to other complications.
Additionally, the nurse might monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity such as decreased reflexes, lowered blood pressure, respiratory depression, and altered cardiac function while administering these medications.