A client in preterm labor has had an infusion of magnesium sulfate running for 8 hours.
Current assessment findings are respirations of 14 breaths/minute, a urine output of 25 mL/hr, deep tendon reflexes of 1+, and a serum magnesium level of 8 mEq/L (4 mmol/L). Based on these assessment findings, which conclusion should the nurse reach?

These findings are within normal limits and require routine follow-up.

All findings are outside of the acceptable range and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.

The primary IV fluids should be increased to assist in increasing the urinary output.

The findings indicate potential toxicity to the magnesium sulfate and close follow-up is indicated.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale

While routine follow-up is necessary, these findings suggest magnesium sulfate toxicity, requiring immediate attention beyond routine monitoring. Hence, this is not the correct action.

Choice B rationale

Although reporting abnormal findings to the healthcare provider is critical, not all findings are necessarily outside acceptable ranges. This choice lacks the specificity needed in this context, making it less appropriate.

Choice C rationale

Increasing primary IV fluids could help with low urine output but would not address potential magnesium toxicity, which is the primary concern indicated by the assessment. Therefore, it is not the correct conclusion.

Choice D rationale

The findings suggest magnesium toxicity, including decreased respirations, reduced urine output, and deep tendon reflexes. Close follow-up, including immediate medical intervention, is needed to manage this potential toxicity.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale

The client has a hemoglobin level of 12 g/dL and a hematocrit of 34%, which are within normal ranges for a postpartum woman. A blood transfusion is typically indicated for severe anemia or significant blood loss, neither of which is suggested by these lab results. Therefore, a blood transfusion is not warranted in this case.

Choice B rationale

Rubella vaccination is indicated for a client who is non-immune to rubella, as indicated by the laboratory results. Rubella vaccination is important to protect the client from contracting rubella in future pregnancies, which can cause serious congenital defects. Since the client is not currently pregnant and not immune, vaccination can be safely administered postpartum to prevent future rubella infections.

Choice C rationale

Penicillin G potassium is an antibiotic that might be used for a client who is group B Streptococcus positive to prevent neonatal infection during delivery. However, this client is group B Streptococcus negative, so there is no indication for this antibiotic. There is no need to administer Penicillin G potassium in this scenario.

Choice D rationale

Hepatitis B immunoglobulin is used for newborns of mothers who are hepatitis B surface antigen positive to prevent perinatal transmission of the virus. Since the client's lab results indicate she is hepatitis B surface antigen negative, there is no need for Hepatitis B immunoglobulin. The client and her newborn are not at risk of hepatitis B transmission, so this intervention is not required. .

A. Diaphragmatic respirations. B. Bilateral bronchial breath sounds. C. Flaring of the nares. D. A resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Diaphragmatic respirations are a normal breathing pattern and do not indicate respiratory distress. In fact, diaphragmatic breathing can be beneficial for patients with respiratory conditions as it helps to maximize lung expansion and improve oxygenation. Therefore, this finding is not indicative of acute respiratory distress in a child with asthma.

Choice B rationale

Bilateral bronchial breath sounds are usually heard over the large airways, such as the trachea and the main bronchi, and are not typically associated with acute respiratory distress. Wheezing or diminished breath sounds would be more indicative of airway obstruction and respiratory distress in a child with asthma.

Choice C rationale

Flaring of the nares is a sign of increased respiratory effort and is commonly seen in children with acute respiratory distress. This indicates that the child is struggling to breathe and is using additional muscles to help with respiration, which is a concerning sign that requires immediate attention.

Choice D rationale

A resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths per minute is elevated for a 3-year-old child but is not the most specific sign of acute respiratory distress. While tachypnea can indicate respiratory distress, other signs, such as nasal flaring, retractions, and cyanosis, are more specific indicators of the severity of the child's condition. .

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A parent rushes their 3-year-old child to the emergency department with an asthma exacerbation. Which additional finding should alert the nurse that the child is in acute respiratory distress?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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