A nurse is caring for a client who has preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate. The client reports that she is experiencing difficulty breathing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Administer calcium gluconate
Discontinue the infusion.
Assess the fetal heart rate.
Obtain the client's magnesium level.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administer calcium gluconate: Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity, but it should be given after stopping the infusion and assessing the client’s respiratory status. Immediate discontinuation takes priority.
B. Discontinue the infusion: Difficulty breathing indicates a potential magnesium sulfate toxicity or respiratory depression, which is a life-threatening emergency. The first action is to stop the infusion to prevent further accumulation.
C. Assess the fetal heart rate: Monitoring the fetus is important, but maternal safety takes priority over fetal assessment in a potential toxic reaction. Stabilizing the mother comes first.
D. Obtain the client's magnesium level: Lab assessment is useful for confirming toxicity, but it should not delay immediate intervention. Stopping the infusion takes precedence over obtaining levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The client brushes her teeth twice daily: Brushing teeth at least twice a day is recommended to reduce plaque buildup, prevent tooth decay, and maintain oral health. This practice is consistent with standard personal hygiene guidelines.
B. The client wipes back to front when toileting: Wiping from back to front increases the risk of transferring bacteria from the anal area to the urethra, which can lead to urinary tract infections. The correct method is front to back.
C. The client washes her perineum first when bathing: The perineal area should be washed last to avoid transferring bacteria from this region to other parts of the body, especially the face. Washing it first increases the risk of cross-contamination.
D. The client takes a hot bubble bath every day: Daily hot bubble baths can dry out the skin and disrupt normal skin flora, potentially leading to irritation or infection. Mild, less frequent bathing with warm (not hot) water is healthier for skin integrity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Adequate hydration: Maintaining proper fluid intake helps reduce blood viscosity and prevents sickling of red blood cells. Dehydration is a common trigger for sickle cell crises, so emphasizing hydration is crucial for prevention.
B. Increased iron intake: Most clients with sickle cell anemia do not require additional iron unless they have documented iron deficiency. Excess iron can accumulate and cause complications, especially in those receiving frequent transfusions.
C. Calorie restriction: Restricting calories is not recommended, as children with sickle cell anemia often have increased metabolic needs due to chronic hemolysis and may require adequate nutrition for growth and energy.
D. A low-protein diet: Protein is important for growth, tissue repair, and overall health. A low-protein diet is not indicated and could worsen nutritional status in children with sickle cell disease.
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