A nurse is caring for a client who has severe preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate intravenously. The nurse discontinues the magnesium sulfate after the client displays toxicity. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Prepare an IV bolus of dextrose 5% in water: Dextrose in water does not reverse magnesium toxicity. It may be used as a fluid carrier but does not serve as an antidote or address the neuromuscular and cardiac effects of excessive magnesium. B. Administer calcium gluconate IV: Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. It helps reverse respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and cardiac conduction delays caused by high magnesium levels, making it the immediate intervention. C. Position the client supine: The supine position can worsen hypotension by decreasing venous return, especially in pregnant clients. Left lateral positioning is generally preferred to improve circulation to vital organs and the fetus. D. Administer methylergonovine IM: Methylergonovine is used to treat postpartum hemorrhage, but it is contraindicated in clients with hypertension or preeclampsia due to its vasoconstrictive effects. It does not treat magnesium toxicity and could increase blood pressure dangerously.