Which of the following would the nurse have readily available for a client who is receiving magnesium sulfate to treat severe preeclampsia?
A.
Calcium gluconate.
B.
Calcium carbonate.
C.
Potassium chloride.
D.
Ferrous sulfate.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. Calcium gluconate.
Explanation:
Magnesium sulfate is commonly used in the management of severe preeclampsia to prevent seizures, a condition known as eclampsia. Magnesium sulfate acts as a central nervous system depressant to prevent these seizures. However, one of the potential side effects of magnesium sulfate therapy is magnesium toxicity, which can manifest as symptoms such as respiratory depression, diminished reflexes, or altered mental status.
To counteract magnesium toxicity, calcium gluconate is administered as an antidote. Calcium gluconate is a calcium salt that helps to stabilize neuromuscular function and counteract the effects of magnesium on the neuromuscular system. It works by competing with magnesium for binding sites and helps to restore normal neuromuscular function, thus preventing or mitigating the effects of magnesium toxicity.
Here’s why the other options are not suitable:
- B. Calcium carbonate: While calcium carbonate is a calcium supplement, it is not used in the acute management of magnesium toxicity. It is more commonly used as an antacid or calcium supplement but does not have the rapid action needed in emergencies like calcium gluconate.
- C. Potassium chloride: This is used to treat hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and has no role in managing magnesium toxicity.
- D. Ferrous sulfate: This is an iron supplement used to treat anemia and does not have any relevance in the management of magnesium toxicity.
Thus, having calcium gluconate readily available is crucial for the safe administration of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of severe preeclampsia to manage potential adverse effects effectively.