The nurse is providing care to a postpartum patient after an emergency cesarean due to eclampsia. The patient received spinal anesthesia before delivery. Magnesium sulfate is infusing 2 g/hr in 100 mL of IV fluid.
Which assessment finding will cause the nurse to administer calcium gluconate to the patient via IV push?
Respiratory rate is 18 breaths/min.
Urinary output remains at 30 mL/hr.
Patella reflexes are rated at one.
Serum magnesium level is 10 mg/dL. . .
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 18 breaths/min is normal and does not indicate magnesium toxicity or the need for calcium gluconate.
Choice B rationale
Urinary output of 30 mL/hr is within the acceptable range and does not suggest magnesium toxicity. This indicates adequate renal function.
Choice C rationale
Patellar reflexes rated at one indicate mild hyporeflexia, which can be a side effect of magnesium sulfate but does not necessitate immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale
Serum magnesium level of 10 mg/dL is significantly elevated, indicating magnesium toxicity. Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium toxicity and should be administered
promptly to prevent severe complications.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Extension of the episiotomy is not a guideline for vacuum-assisted delivery. Episiotomy extension is considered based on perineal conditions during delivery, not as a primary
guideline for vacuum procedures.
Choice B rationale
Signs of fetal compromise resolving is critical for fetal safety but isn't specific to the guidelines for a vacuum-assisted delivery. Continuous fetal monitoring assesses for compromise,
not just vacuum application.
Choice C rationale
The "three-pull" rule refers to the number of attempts allowed with the vacuum to avoid excessive force and trauma. This guideline ensures safety during the procedure, preventing
overuse of vacuum pressure.
Choice D rationale
Full anesthesia status is unrelated to the guidelines for vacuum-assisted delivery. Anesthesia choices depend on patient and procedural needs, but aren't a guideline criterion for
vacuum use.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Vaginal hematomas are usually associated with severe pain due to the accumulation of blood in the tissues.
Choice B rationale
Bleeding might be visible, but hematomas often cause internal accumulation, not external bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Warmth is not typically associated with hematomas; instead, pain and swelling are more common.
Choice D rationale
Redness may occur, but pain is the most consistent symptom.