The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving magnesium sulfate for ventricular tachycardia. The nurse assesses a heart rate of 68 beats per minute, a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute, a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg, and decreased deep tendon reflexes. The nurse understands that these are signs of which condition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is showing signs of hypermagnesemia, which can result from an excess of magnesium sulfate. These signs include decreased deep tendon reflexes, hypotension, and bradycardia. Respiratory depression may also occur. Hyperkalemia can cause changes in cardiac rhythm, but it would not cause decreased deep tendon reflexes. Impending cardiac arrest would not cause the specific signs seen in this patient. Renal compromise would not cause the specific signs seen in this patient either.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Receiving