A client is diagnosed with preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate IV for seizure prophylaxis.
The nurse should monitor which of the following laboratory values?
Serum magnesium level
Serum potassium level
Serum sodium level
Serum calcium level
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A) Serum magnesium level. Magnesium sulfate is a mineral that reduces seizure risks in women with preeclampsia. It is often given intravenously and can also be used to prolong pregnancy for up to two days. However, magnesium sulfate can also cause side effects and toxicity, such as respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and cardiac arrest. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the serum magnesium level to ensure that it is within the therapeutic range of 4 to 7 mg/dL.
Choice B) Serum potassium level is wrong because magnesium sulfate does not affect the potassium level significantly.
Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates the nerve and muscle function, especially the heart.
The normal range of potassium level is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.
Choice C) Serum sodium level is wrong because magnesium sulfate does not affect the sodium level significantly.
Sodium is another electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and blood pressure.
The normal range of sodium level is 135 to 145 mEq/L.
Choice D) Serum calcium level is wrong because magnesium sulfate does not affect the calcium level significantly.
Calcium is a mineral that is important for bone health, blood clotting, and muscle contraction.
The normal range of calcium level is 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B, D and E. These are signs and symptoms of preeclampsia, a serious complication of gestational hypertension that can affect the mother and the baby.Preeclampsia is marked by high blood pressure and protein in urine or other signs of organ damage.
Choice A is wrong because swelling of the face, hands or feet is a common symptom of pregnancy and does not necessarily indicate preeclampsia.However, sudden or severe swelling can be a warning sign and should be checked by a healthcare provider.
Choice C is wrong because severe headache is a symptom of preeclampsia, not gestational hypertension.Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and does not have protein in urine or other signs of organ damage.
Some normal ranges for blood pressure during pregnancy are:
• Systolic (top number): less than 140 mm Hg
• Diastolic (bottom number): less than 90 mm Hg
Some normal ranges for protein in urine during pregnancy are:
• Less than 300 mg per 24 hours
• Less than 0.3 g per liter
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C) “I should report any dizziness or lightheadedness while taking this medication.” This is because labetalol can lower blood pressure and cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to falls and injuries.The patient should be advised to change positions slowly and monitor their blood pressure regularly while taking labetalol.
Choice A is wrong because labetalol can be taken with or without food.Taking it on an empty stomach does not affect its absorption or efficacy.
Choice B is wrong because labetalol does not affect potassium levels in the blood.Foods high in potassium are not contraindicated while taking this medication.
Choice D is wrong because swelling in the feet or hands can be a sign of worsening preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of hypertension in pregnancy.The patient should not stop taking labetalol without consulting their doctor, as this can cause rebound hypertension and endanger the mother and the fetus.The patient should seek medical attention if they experience swelling, headache, vision changes, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements.
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