What nursing intervention is crucial when administering Magnesium Sulfate for preterm labor?

What nursing intervention is crucial when administering Magnesium Sulfate for preterm labor?

• A. Monitor blood glucose levels frequently
• B. Assess respiratory status and deep tendon reflexes
• C. Administer with other medications to enhance effect
• D. Provide patient education about dietary changes

Answer: (B)

When administering Magnesium Sulfate for preterm labor, it is essential to assess respiratory status and deep tendon reflexes. Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant and muscle relaxant that is commonly used to manage preterm labor by relaxing the uterus and reducing contractions. Monitoring respiratory status is vital because magnesium can lead to respiratory depression, especially if serum levels become elevated. It's also important to check deep tendon reflexes, as diminished reflexes can indicate magnesium toxicity, which can be life-threatening. By regularly assessing these parameters, the nurse can promptly identify any adverse effects of the medication, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the fetus. The other options may not directly relate to the immediate and critical monitoring needed when administering Magnesium Sulfate and are thus less relevant in this specific context.

When administering Magnesium Sulfate for preterm labor, it is essential to assess respiratory status and deep tendon reflexes. Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant and muscle relaxant that is commonly used to manage preterm labor by relaxing the uterus and reducing contractions.

Monitoring respiratory status is vital because magnesium can lead to respiratory depression, especially if serum levels become elevated. It's also important to check deep tendon reflexes, as diminished reflexes can indicate magnesium toxicity, which can be life-threatening. By regularly assessing these parameters, the nurse can promptly identify any adverse effects of the medication, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

The other options may not directly relate to the immediate and critical monitoring needed when administering Magnesium Sulfate and are thus less relevant in this specific context.