The client is being induced in response to worsening preeclampsia.She is also receiving magnesium sulfate.It appears that her labor has not become active,despite several hours of oxytocin administration.She asks the nurse,"Why is this taking so long?" What is the nurse's most appropriate response?
A) "The magnesium is relaxing your uterus and competing with the oxytocin. It may increase the duration of your labor."
B) "I don't know why it is taking so long."
C) "The length of labor varies for different women."
D) "Your baby is just being stubborn."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because magnesium sulfate is a tocolytic agent,its use may increase the duration of labor.The amount of oxytocin needed to stimulate labor may be more than that needed for the woman who is not receiving magnesium sulfate.The nurse should explain to the client the effects of magnesium sulfate on the duration of labor.Although the length of labor varies for different women,the most likely reason this woman's labor is protracted is the tocolytic effects of magnesium sulfate.The behavior of the fetus has no bearing on the length of labor.

The Client Is Being Induced in Response to Worsening Preeclampsia