A nurse is collecting data from a client who is receiving magnesium sulfate via continuous IV infusion to treat preeclampsia. Which of the following findings indicates that the medication is having a therapeutic effect?
Positive clonus
Urinary output 20 mL/hr
Respiratory rate 10/min
Deep tendon reflexes 2+
The Correct Answer is D
A. Positive clonus is a sign of hyperreflexia and can indicate worsening preeclampsia or severe central nervous system irritability. It is not a therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate.
B. Urinary output 20 mL/hr is below the minimum expected urine output (which is generally 30 mL/hr). This finding suggests oliguria and may be a sign of worsening renal function, which is not a therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate.
C. Respiratory rate 10/min is too low. Magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression, and a respiratory rate of 10/min may indicate toxicity. This is not a therapeutic effect.
D. Deep tendon reflexes 2+ is the correct answer. Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia by acting as a CNS depressant. A normal response of 2+ for deep tendon reflexes indicates that magnesium sulfate is having a therapeutic effect and the client is not experiencing magnesium toxicity (which would typically cause a decreased reflex response..
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Heart rhythm: This is correct. Hypothermia, indicated by a body temperature of 32.5°C (90.5°F), can affect the cardiovascular system, potentially causing arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest. Monitoring heart rhythm is critical because of the risk of life-threatening cardiac complications associated with severe hypothermia.
B. Urinary output: While urinary output may decrease in hypothermic conditions due to vasoconstriction, it is not the priority. Cardiac function takes precedence, as severe hypothermia can lead to fatal arrhythmias.
C. Pain sensation: Although decreased pain sensation can occur in hypothermia, it is less urgent to monitor compared to the potential for life-threatening arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.
D. Muscle strength: While hypothermia can impair muscle strength, it is not the priority compared to monitoring for cardiac irregularities, which can be fatal if left unchecked.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "My child still wets the bed at least two times per week." While this is a concern, bedwetting can be a normal developmental behavior for children at this age and does not necessarily indicate a problem unless it persists beyond the typical age range.
B. "I have a difficult time getting my child to eat green vegetables." This is a common concern for parents of young children and typically does not warrant immediate attention, although it may require guidance on healthy eating habits.
C. "My child continually asks me the same questions." Repetition of questions is a normal part of cognitive development in young children and does not indicate an issue by itself.
D. "I have noticed that my child is withdrawn since we switched day care providers." This is the priority concern. Withdrawal or behavioral changes, particularly after a significant event like a change in day care, can indicate stress, anxiety, or possible emotional issues, and the nurse should address this promptly to ensure the child's well-being.
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