During a vaginal exam, the nurse notes that the lower uterine segment is softened. The nurse documents this finding as:

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because difficulty in arousing is a sign of magnesium toxicity, which is a serious complication of magnesium sulfate therapy. Magnesium toxicity can cause central nervous system depression, muscle weakness, and cardiac arrest. The nurse should monitor the client's level of consciousness and stop the infusion if the client becomes lethargic or unresponsive.

Choice B Reason: This is correct because deep tendon reflexes 2+ indicate a normal and expected response to magnesium sulfate therapy. Magnesium sulfate is a muscle relaxant that can reduce the risk of seizures in gestational hypertension. The nurse should assess the client's deep tendon reflexes regularly and maintain them at 2+ or slightly diminished.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because urinary output of 30 mL per hour is below the normal range of 40 to 80 mL per hour and may indicate renal impairment or dehydration. Magnesium sulfate can cause renal toxicity or fluid retention, which can affect the urinary output. The nurse should monitor the client's urinary output and fluid balance and report any abnormalities to the doctor.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because respiratory rate of 10 breaths/minute is below the normal range of 12 to 20 breaths/minute and may indicate respiratory depression. Magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression or failure, which can be life-threatening. The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation and administer oxygen or antidote if needed.

Choice A: A clear liquid diet is not appropriate for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum, which is a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and weight loss. A clear liquid diet does not provide adequate calories, protein, vitamins, or minerals for the client and the fetus.

Choice B: Administration of diethylstilbestrol is not indicated for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum. Diethylstilbestrol is a synthetic estrogen that was used in the past to prevent miscarriage and premature birth, but it was found to cause serious adverse effects such as vaginal cancer, infertility, and birth defects in the offspring.

Choice C: Total parenteral nutrition is the correct choice because it provides a complete and balanced source of nutrients through a central venous catheter. It is used for clients who cannot tolerate oral or enteral feeding due to severe gastrointestinal disorders such as hyperemesis gravidarum. It helps to prevent malnutrition, dehydration, and ketosis in the client and the fetus.

Choice D: Nothing by mouth is not a suitable option for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum. It can worsen the condition by causing starvation, acidosis, and ketosis. It can also increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia if the client vomits.