The nurse is caring for a pregnant client with preeclampsia who is receiving IV magnesium sulfate. The nurses assess the following symptoms: -Respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min Urine output 25ml during the last hour Absent deep tendon reflexes What medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

A. Hydralazine is an antihypertensive used to manage severe hypertension in preeclampsia. While controlling blood pressure is essential in preeclampsia, hydralazine does not reverse the toxic effects of magnesium. Administering hydralazine in this context would not address the immediate life-threatening neuromuscular or respiratory depression. B. Methylergonovine is a uterotonic agent used to treat postpartum hemorrhage by stimulating uterine contractions. It has no effect on magnesium toxicity and is unrelated to seizure prophylaxis or respiratory function. Administering this drug would not correct the client’s critical condition. C. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression. Magnesium sulfate toxicity is not opioid-related, so Narcan would not improve respiratory rate, restore reflexes, or address neuromuscular blockade caused by magnesium. D. Calcium gluconate is the specific antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. It works by antagonizing the effects of magnesium at the neuromuscular junction, restoring deep tendon reflexes, and improving respiratory muscle function. Administration is intravenous, slow, and under close monitoring. Simultaneously, the magnesium infusion should be stopped immediately to prevent further accumulation. After stabilization, the nurse should monitor vital signs, urine output, reflexes, and serum magnesium levels to ensure safe recovery.