Question

TA ask whether the side effects of magnesium sulfate will continue. what is an appropriate nursing response?

Answer 1

Magnesium sulphate is mainly administered in the mother in case of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia with high caution as slight increase in the dose may cause toxicity.

There are some common side effects associated with the magnesium therapy as nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, dizziness, flushing & irritation at the site of injection. Hence there is need of using nursing tools in management of such unwanted effects.

There is need to monitor serum magnesium levels in the nursing intervals at the same time renal functioning should be monitored as it is removed only by the renal route.

Hence the nursing management is mainly accomplished for assessment of the patient prior to the administration of the magnesium sulphate along with during the administration of magnesium sulphate. The assessment includes blood pressure, pulse rate determination, respiration management, fluid intake and output as well as level of consciousness. In addition the assessment of fetal heart rate as well as the uterine contractions of the mother is taken in the priority concern.

Hence by utilizing best nursing tool and after a proper discussion with the pharmacist and other health professional the nurses should manage the patients with magnesium sulphate therapy.