QUESTION: "Which of the following drugs would the nurse expect to administer to the client receiving intravenous magnesium sulfate for pregnancy-induced hypertension if the client develops magnesium toxicity? "
CHOICES
( O ) a.) Calcium gluconate.
( X ) b.) Diazepam (Valium).
( X ) c.) Phenytoin (Dilantin).
( X ) d.) Furosemide (Lasix).
RATIONALE: The antidote for magnesium toxicity is calcium gluconate and should be readily available whenever magnesium sulfate is being administered. Diazepam (Valium) is not the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. Diazepam is an anti-anxiety agent that when used could result in further central nervous system depression. The drug may be indicated for use with seizures secondary to epidural anesthesia. Phenytoin (Dilantin) is not the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. It is used to treat seizure disorders. Furosemide (Lasix) is not the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat heart failure, acute pulmonary edema, or hypertension. NURSING PROCESS STEP: Planning CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Physiological integrity CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: Pharmacological and parenteral therapies
