Final answer:
The most critical finding to report to the provider when monitoring a preeclamptic client on magnesium sulfate is a urine output of 20ml/hr, as it may indicate decreased kidney function or magnesium toxicity.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is collecting data from a client who has preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate via a continuous IV infusion, the findings that should be reported to the provider include 2+ deep tendon reflexes, facial flushing, respiratory rate, and urine output. Of these findings, the one that is most concerning and should be immediately reported to the provider is a urine output of 20ml/hr. This could indicate decreased kidney function, which is a serious complication of preeclampsia and could be a sign of impending magnesium sulfate toxicity.
In assessing the safety and wellbeing of a patient on magnesium sulfate, healthcare providers monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity. Symptoms such as reduced urine output, respiratory depression (less than 12 breaths per minute), loss of deep tendon reflexes, and cardiac arrest are critical indicators of magnesium sulfate overdose or toxicity, which require immediate medical intervention