A nurse is assessing a client who received magnesium sulfate to treat preterm labor. Which of the following clinical findings should the nurse identify as an indication of toxicity of magnesium sulfate therapy and report to the provider?
Drowsiness
Facial flushing
Nausea
Respiratory depression
The Correct Answer is D
Explanation:
A. Drowsiness: Mild drowsiness is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate therapy and is not necessarily indicative of toxicity. However, severe drowsiness or lethargy can be a sign of magnesium toxicity and should be reported to the provider.
B. Facial flushing: Facial flushing is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate administration and is generally not a sign of toxicity. It is often accompanied by warmth and redness of the skin but is not considered a serious adverse reaction.
C. Nausea: Nausea is another common side effect of magnesium sulfate therapy and is usually mild and transient. It is not typically indicative of toxicity unless it is severe and persistent.
D. Respiratory depression: Respiratory depression is a critical sign of magnesium toxicity. Excessive levels of magnesium can affect neuromuscular function, leading to respiratory muscle weakness and depression. This can result in shallow or slowed breathing, decreased oxygenation, and potential respiratory failure. Respiratory depression is a serious complication that requires immediate intervention, and the nurse should report it to the provider promptly.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Explanation:
A. Acarbose:
Acarbose is an oral antidiabetic medication that works by slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines. It is typically used in the management of type 2 diabetes but is not commonly prescribed for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Acarbose is not usually recommended during pregnancy, especially since there are other safer options available for managing GDM.
B. Repaglinide:
Repaglinide is another oral antidiabetic medication that stimulates insulin release from the pancreas. While it is effective in lowering blood sugar levels, it is not commonly used as a first-line treatment for gestational diabetes. Repaglinide may have a more rapid onset of action compared to other oral antidiabetic drugs, but its use during pregnancy is not as common as other medications like glyburide or insulin.
C. Glipizide:
Glipizide is an oral sulfonylurea medication used primarily in the management of type 2 diabetes. It stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas. However, like other sulfonylureas, glipizide is not typically recommended for use during pregnancy due to safety concerns for the developing fetus. It may also have a higher risk of hypoglycemia compared to other options.
D. Glyburide:
Glyburide is an oral sulfonylurea medication that helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release from the pancreas. It is one of the commonly used medications for managing gestational diabetes when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient. Glyburide is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, and it has been found to effectively control blood glucose levels in many pregnant individuals with GDM.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Explanation:
A. "This will occur between the fourth and fifth months of pregnancy."
This response is accurate and aligns with the typical timeframe for quickening, which is the first perception of fetal movements by the pregnant person. Quickening commonly occurs between the 16th and 20th week of pregnancy, corresponding to the fourth and fifth months. However, it's essential to note that the exact timing can vary from person to person and pregnancy to pregnancy.
B. "This will happen by the end of the first trimester of pregnancy."
This response is not entirely accurate. Quickening typically occurs later than the end of the first trimester. While some women, particularly those who have been pregnant before, may feel fetal movements toward the end of the first trimester, it's more common to experience quickening during the second trimester.
C. "This will happen once the uterus begins to rise out of the pelvis."
This response is not directly related to quickening. The rising of the uterus (fundus) out of the pelvic cavity is a physical change that occurs as the pregnancy progresses, but it doesn't signify the onset of fetal movements (quickening). Quickening is specifically about feeling the baby's movements, not the position of the uterus.
D. “This will occur during the last trimester of pregnancy."
This response is incorrect. Quickening typically occurs much earlier, specifically during the second trimester, around the 16th to 20th week of pregnancy. Waiting until the last trimester to feel fetal movements would be unusual and might prompt further evaluation or discussion with a healthcare provider.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
