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    Ati rn comprehensive predictor 2023 retake proctored exam

    The nurse continues to care for the client who is at 30 weeks of gestation. Exhibits Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. Based on the client findings, the nurse should first dropdown and then prepare to administer dropdown.

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale for correct choices: Apply oxygen via nasal cannula: The client is experiencing signs of decreased oxygenation (SpO₂ 92%), shallow respirations, and lethargy, which may indicate central nervous system depression from magnesium sulfate. Administering oxygen improves tissue perfusion and is a priority for maternal and fetal well-being. Calcium gluconate: Magnesium sulfate toxicity presents with depressed deep tendon reflexes, lethargy, and respiratory depression. Since the client's DTRs have decreased from 3+ to 1+ and respirations are now shallow, calcium gluconate should be prepared as the antidote to reverse toxicity promptly. Rationale for incorrect choices: Reduce fluid intake: Although the client has reduced urine output and elevated creatinine and BUN levels, there is no indication of fluid overload. Reducing fluids does not address the immediate concern of hypoxia or magnesium toxicity, which are more urgent. Discontinue IV infusion: The IV is essential for delivering antihypertensive medications and magnesium sulfate. Discontinuing it would delay critical treatment and worsen the client’s condition. Adjustments, if needed, should follow provider orders after assessment, not be the nurse's initial independent action. Hydralazine: Hydralazine is appropriate for severe hypertension but is not the most urgent need when magnesium toxicity is suspected. Managing respiratory compromise and preparing the antidote takes precedence over blood pressure control in this case. Nifedipine: Nifedipine was already prescribed and may be administered for ongoing hypertension management. However, it is not used to treat magnesium sulfate toxicity and does not reverse respiratory depression. Thus, while important, it is not the immediate medication to prepare in this scenario.

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