A patient is receiving magnesium sulfate.Which side effect should the nurse monitor for with this patient?

Massaging the uterus helps it contract and prevent excessive bleeding after delivery.Uterine atony is a condition where the uterus does not contract enough to clamp the blood vessels that supply the placenta, leading to postpartum hemorrhage.Uterine massage is one of the interventions to treat uterine atony and restore uterine tone.

Choice A is wrong because having the client void frequently does not directly affect the uterine contraction.However, a full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction and cause displacement of the uterus, so it is important to monitor the bladder status and empty it as needed.

Choice C is wrong because having the client in a side-lying position for comfort does not help with uterine contraction.However, this position may be beneficial for other reasons, such as reducing edema and pain in the perineal area.

Choice D is wrong because keeping the patient on strict bed rest for 24 hours to avoid stress on the uterus does not help with uterine contraction.In fact, early ambulation after delivery can help prevent thromboembolic complications and promote recovery.

Normal ranges for postpartum blood loss are less than 500 mL for vaginal delivery and less than 1000 mL for cesarean delivery.Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as blood loss greater than or equal to 1000 mL or blood loss accompanied by signs or symptoms of hypovolemia within 24 hours after birth.

The correct answer is choice A. The newborn’s nostrils flare slightly during respiration.This is a sign of respiratory distress in a newborn.

Flaring nostrils indicate that the newborn is working hard to breathe and may not be getting enough oxygen.

Choice B is wrong because the newborn’s hands and feet are blue and feel cool.This is a normal finding called acrocyanosis, which occurs due to immature peripheral circulation.

It usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours after birth.

Choice C is wrong because the newborn’s eyes move randomly when his head is turned to the side.This is a normal finding called nystagmus, which occurs due to immature eye muscles and coordination.

It usually disappears by 6 months of age.

Choice D is wrong because the newborn’s tongue thrusts forward when it is lightly touched.This is a normal finding called the extrusion reflex, which helps the newborn to suck and swallow.

It usually fades by 4 months of age.