Final answer:
Nursing considerations for administering magnesium sulfate include monitoring vital signs and reflexes, assessing renal function, monitoring serum magnesium levels, accurately calculating dosage and infusion rates, and educating the patient about potential side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nursing considerations when administering magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) involve a range of safety and monitoring measures to ensure patient well-being. It is important to monitor vital signs, especially respiratory rate, blood pressure, and reflexes because magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression, hypotension, and decreased reflexes. The patient's renal function should be assessed before administration since this medication is excreted primarily by the kidneys. Serum magnesium levels should be monitored to avoid toxicity. Proper dosage calculation and infusion rates are essential, as well as patient education regarding potential side effects. Unlike ferrous sulfate, which is prescribed for anemia, magnesium sulfate is commonly used for conditions such as eclampsia, pre-eclampsia, or certain cardiac arrhythmias.