A nurse is planning to administer 2 units of packed RBCs to an older adult client who has anemia. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take? (Select all that apply.)

Rationale:

A. Prepare an IV bolus of dextrose 5% in water: Dextrose in water does not reverse magnesium toxicity. It may be used as a fluid carrier but does not serve as an antidote or address the neuromuscular and cardiac effects of excessive magnesium.

B. Administer calcium gluconate IV: Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. It helps reverse respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and cardiac conduction delays caused by high magnesium levels, making it the immediate intervention.

C. Position the client supine: The supine position can worsen hypotension by decreasing venous return, especially in pregnant clients. Left lateral positioning is generally preferred to improve circulation to vital organs and the fetus.

D. Administer methylergonovine IM: Methylergonovine is used to treat postpartum hemorrhage, but it is contraindicated in clients with hypertension or preeclampsia due to its vasoconstrictive effects. It does not treat magnesium toxicity and could increase blood pressure dangerously.

Rationale:

A. Blood pressure: Orthostatic hypotension is evident from the drop in systolic and diastolic pressure when standing, indicating fluid and electrolyte imbalance. This may reflect volume depletion due to purging and requires monitoring to prevent fainting or falls.

B. Syncope: The client reports repeated fainting episodes, a red flag when paired with orthostatic hypotension and electrolyte disturbances. This suggests unstable cardiovascular status and raises the risk of injury or sudden cardiac events.

C. ECG: Sinus tachycardia with premature ventricular contractions indicates cardiac irritability likely due to electrolyte imbalance, especially hypokalemia. Continuous cardiac monitoring and correction of abnormalities are needed.

D. Albumin: An albumin level of 2.6 g/dL indicates significant malnutrition and protein deficiency, compromising immune function and wound healing. This also suggests a chronic issue requiring dietetic intervention and nutritional rehabilitation.

E. Potassium: Potassium at 3.0 mEq/L is dangerously low and a known contributor to cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Replenishment and close monitoring are critical to avoid complications such as cardiac arrest.

F. Sodium: Although sodium is only slightly low at 134 mEq/L, in the context of purging and poor intake, this could indicate dilutional hyponatremia. It increases seizure risk and needs assessment of fluid status and intake behaviors.