A nurse is assessing a client who is at 31 weeks of gestation and is receiving magnesium sulfate via continuous IV infusion for preterm labor.Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleA respiratory rate of 11/min is below the normal adult range of 12–20/min and indicates respiratory depression, a potential adverse effect of magnesium sulfate requiring immediate intervention.Choice B rationaleDeep tendon reflexes graded 2+ are within the normal range, indicating that magnesium sulfate has not caused neuromuscular suppression, which would present as absent or diminished reflexes.Choice C rationaleA urine output of 30 mL/hr meets the minimum renal perfusion threshold, so it does not indicate magnesium toxicity or renal impairment, which would show decreased urine production.Choice D rationaleBlood pressure of 100/62 mm Hg is low-normal and does not signify hypotension related to magnesium sulfate use. Vital signs within this range are not typically concerning in this context.