A patient who is a chronic alcoholic is admitted to the hospital. Admission laboratory work reveals a magnesium level of 1.2 mEq/L. The prescriber orders intravenous magnesium sulfate in a 10% solution at a rate of 10 mL/min. What will the nurse do?
A) Administer the IV dose as ordered and have calcium gluconate on hand.
B) Administer the IV dose and make preparations for mechanical ventilation.
C) Hold the IV dose until the infusion rate has been clarified with the provider.
D) Request an order for renal function tests before administering the IV dose.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient has hypomagnesemia and should be given magnesium sulfate intravenously. The percent of magnesium in solution is correct; however, magnesium should not be infused faster than 1.5 mL/min, so the nurse is correct to question the rate of infusion. Calcium gluconate should be available when magnesium is given, but the nurse needs to clarify the rate of infusion first. Mechanical ventilation is necessary with excessive magnesium. Renal function tests are not indicated.

A Patient Who Is a Chronic Alcoholic Is Admitted to the Hospital