Question

HTN Medication Questions: Magnesium Sulfate

How will the pt feel when initially receiving Magnesium Sulfate?

What will you monitor while the pt is on Magnesium Sulfate?

What would you do if toxicity of Magnesium Sulfate is suspected?

What other health promotion actions can the nurse take for this patient?

Answer 1

The patient might have the following signs when initially receiving Magnesium Sulfate:

• Patient may feel that he is about to pass out.
• Excessively sweat, and feel extremely weak.
• Feeling of numbness or loss of sensation in muscles.
• Extremely sleepy.

The followings are to be monitored while the patient is on Magnesium Sulfate:

• Difficulty in breathing or troubled respiration.
• Face may swell up along with lips, tongue, and even throat.
• Rashes may be noticed on skin.

If toxicity of Magnesium Sulfate is suspected, for instance, in case of difficult breathing, calcium gluconate is to be given.

Health promotion actions a nurse should take for the patient:

• The nurse must check the concentration of the Magnesium sulfate that is used. The premixed solution should be 20g/500 mL.
• The nurse should also check for the infusion rate, IV pump settings and also the line attachment.
• Finally, the nurse must inform a physician in case of any observable signs.