A pregnant woman has been receiving a magnesium sulfate infusion for treatment of severe preeclampsia for 24 hours.On assessment,the nurse finds the following vital signs: temperature 37.3° C,pulse rate 88 beats per minute,respiratory rate 10 breaths per minute,BP 148/90 mm Hg,absent deep tendon reflexes (DTRs),and no ankle clonus.The client complains,"I'm so thirsty and warm." What is the nurse's immediate action?

Question

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The client is exhibiting signs of magnesium toxicity, including absent DTRs and a slowed respiratory rate. Discontinuation of the magnesium sulfate infusion is the immediate priority to prevent further toxicity. The nurse should also encourage the client to drink water to alleviate thirst. Administering oxygen and preparing to administer hydralazine are not appropriate actions at this time. A magnesium sulfate level may be ordered later, but it is not the immediate priority.

A Pregnant Woman Has Been Receiving a Magnesium Sulfate Infusion