A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving IV magnesium sulfate for treatment of preeclampsia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Blood pressure 122/88 mm Hg: This blood pressure is within a normal range, especially for a client receiving magnesium sulfate to manage preeclampsia. Magnesium sulfate works to control blood pressure in preeclampsia, so this is not a concerning finding. B. Pupils equal, round, react to light, accommodation: This is a normal neurological finding. Magnesium sulfate does not typically cause changes in pupil response unless toxicity occurs. Since the pupils are reacting normally, no immediate concern is indicated. C. 1+ deep tendon reflexes: Deep tendon reflexes of 1+ are a sign of mild depression of reflexes, which can be an early sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate toxicity commonly presents with absent reflexes (0), and 1+ reflexes suggest the client may be nearing toxicity. This requires monitoring and should be reported to the provider. D. 24 hr urine output 960 mL: A urine output of 960 mL over 24 hours is within the expected range (greater than 720 mL/24 hours or 30 mL/hr). This indicates adequate renal function and does not suggest a need for intervention or reporting.