A nurse is assessing a client who has preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate via continuous IV infusion. For which of the following therapeutic effects should the nurse monitor the client?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Negative clonus: Monitoring for a negative clonus is appropriate as it indicates effective control of neuromuscular excitability and seizure prevention in clients receiving magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia. A negative clonus response suggests that the magnesium sulfate is effectively managing the risk of seizures. B. BP 150/92 mm Hg: While blood pressure management is important in preeclampsia, a blood pressure of 150/92 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which is not a desired therapeutic effect when managing preeclampsia with magnesium sulfate. C. Pulse rate 100/min: A pulse rate of 100/min is not a specific therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate and can indicate tachycardia, which might require further evaluation rather than being a target for monitoring. D. Flushed face: A flushed face may occur as a side effect of magnesium sulfate infusion, but it is not a therapeutic effect. It does not indicate that the medication is working to control the symptoms of preeclampsia.