A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is actively bleeding from a stab wound to the thigh.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answer is B. The taking-in phase of maternal adjustment is characterized by the passive and dependent behavior of the mother, who focuses on her own needs and relies on others for assistance. The mother is eager to review the birth experience and share her feelings with others, which helps her process and integrate what happened. The other options are incorrect because they describe manifestations of other phases of maternal adjustment: tolerating physical discomforts and performing self-care independently are typical of the taking-hold phase while beginning reconnecting with their partner is typical of the letting-go phase.

Choice A rationale:

Give the client protamine if signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity occur. Protamine is not the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. Calcium gluconate or calcium chloride is used to counteract the effects of magnesium sulfate toxicity by antagonizing the action of magnesium on the neuromuscular junction and the heart.

Choice B rationale:

Monitor the FHR via Doppler every 30 min. While fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring is important during magnesium sulfate infusion due to the risk of fetal distress, using Doppler every 30 minutes may not provide continuous and accurate monitoring. Continuous electronic fetal monitoring is the standard of care in this situation.

Choice C rationale:

Restrict the client's total fluid intake to 250 mL/hr. Magnesium sulfate is excreted by the kidneys, so maintaining adequate urine output is crucial to prevent magnesium toxicity. Restricting fluid intake to 250 mL/hr would likely reduce urine output, leading to an increased risk of magnesium sulfate accumulation in the body, which could be harmful.

Choice D rationale:

Measure the client's urine output every hour. Monitoring urine output is essential during magnesium sulfate infusion as it helps assess renal function and magnesium excretion. Adequate urine output (at least 30 mL/hr) is necessary to prevent magnesium toxicity. Therefore, measuring the client's urine output every hour is a critical nursing intervention to ensure the safety of the client.