Final answer:
The purpose of the magnesium sulfate infusion in a 34-weeks gestation client with gestational hypertension is to prevent preeclamptic seizures. Magnesium sulfate works as a cerebral vasodilator and is critical in ensuring the safety of both mother and fetus during such a high-risk pregnancy scenario.
Step-by-step explanation:
The continuous intravenous infusion of magnesium sulfate is being given to a client who is 34-weeks pregnant with gestational hypertension for the purpose of preventing preeclamptic seizures. Gestational hypertension can lead to preeclampsia, a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system. Magnesium sulfate acts as a cerebral vasodilator and can prevent the onset of seizures associated with preeclampsia, which is also referred to as eclampsia when seizures occur.
It is important to note that magnesium sulfate is not used to increase the frequency of contractions, maintain respiratory function, or speed up fetal lung maturity directly. Instead, its role in this scenario is to ensure the safety of the mother by controlling and preventing seizures which can be life-threatening to both her and the fetus.