Magnesium Sulfate is being administered intravenously to a client for pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Which assessment finding should the nurse identify as a complication of this treatment?

Choice A rationale:

Identification of fetal heartbeat (Choice A) is a positive sign of pregnancy. This can be detected using a Doppler device or ultrasound, confirming the presence of a living fetus.

Choice B rationale:

Palpation of fetal outline (Choice B) is another positive sign of pregnancy. Experienced healthcare providers can palpate the fetus through the abdominal wall, feeling its shape and movements.

Choice D rationale:

Verification of fetal movement (Choice D) is also a positive sign of pregnancy. Feeling fetal movements, known as quickening, is an indication of a viable pregnancy.

Choice E rationale:

A positive human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) test (Choice E) confirms pregnancy. hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta and is present in the blood and urine of pregnant women.

Choice C rationale:

Visualization of the fetus (Choice C) through methods like ultrasound is a positive sign of pregnancy, but it is not typically used for diagnosis in early pregnancy. Palpation of fetal outline and identification of fetal heartbeat are more reliable positive signs.

Choice A rationale:

An Apgar score of 10 at 1 minute after birth indicates that the infant is in excellent condition, adjusting well to extrauterine life, and requires no further testing or interventions at that moment. The Apgar score assesses the baby's heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflexes, and color, with a maximum score of 10. An Apgar score of 10 suggests that the baby is pink, has a heart rate above 100 beats per minute, exhibits strong cries, has active motion, and demonstrates good muscle tone.

Choice B rationale:

An Apgar score of 10 does not indicate severe distress requiring resuscitation. A low Apgar score (typically below 7) at 1 minute may prompt further evaluation and interventions to support the baby's transition to extrauterine life.

Choice C rationale:

While a high Apgar score is reassuring, it does not predict a future free of neurologic problems. The Apgar score assesses the baby's current condition and provides a snapshot of their overall well-being at birth.

Choice D rationale:

Although the Apgar score is assessed at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, a score of 10 at 1 minute suggests that the baby is doing well at that moment. However, the baby should still be assessed again at 5 minutes to ensure continued stability and appropriate interventions if necessary.