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.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Oral rehydration therapy is not used in place of feedings for infants undergoing phototherapy for elevated bilirubin levels. It's crucial to maintain proper nutrition and hydration through regular feedings.
Choice B rationale
Rotating the baby helps ensure even exposure to the bili lights, which aids in breaking down bilirubin effectively across the baby's body.
Choice C rationale
Applying restraints is inappropriate and unnecessary. It could cause distress and is not a standard practice for phototherapy.
Choice D rationale
Administering intravenous fluids is not typically needed unless there's a risk of dehydration or other medical indications as per the doctor's orders.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Methylergonovine (Methergine) is used to manage postpartum hemorrhage by stimulating uterine contractions. It is especially useful in cases like this where rapid uterine tone is needed.
Choice B rationale
Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in preeclamptic patients, not to manage postpartum hemorrhage. This choice is incorrect in this context.
Choice C rationale
Carboprost-tromethamine (Hemabate) is also used for treating postpartum hemorrhage but is typically a secondary option to methylergonovine and may have more side effects.
Choice D rationale
Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is used to replace clotting factors in cases of coagulopathy, not as a primary intervention for postpartum hemorrhage in this patient.