What clinical finding should a nurse report for a client receiving magnesium sulfate?

What clinical finding should a nurse report for a client receiving magnesium sulfate?

• A. Facial flushing
• B. Increased respiration rate
• C. Low urine output
• D. Dry mouth

Answer: (A)

Facial flushing is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate administration due to its vasodilatory effects, leading to the widening of blood vessels and resulting in increased blood flow to the skin. While facial flushing itself may not be immediately concerning, the clinical context is critical. In patients receiving magnesium sulfate, particularly for conditions such as preeclampsia, it is essential to monitor for potential toxicity, as magnesium can have various effects on the body. The monitoring of vital signs and symptoms is crucial. While facial flushing may occur without immediate harm, other signs of adverse effects, such as decreased respiratory function or low urine output, can indicate magnesium toxicity. Therefore, any unusual clinical findings—especially those that could indicate complications—should be reported to ensure appropriate evaluation and intervention. In this context, facial flushing is significant but should be monitored alongside other clinical parameters. If more severe side effects develop—such as respiratory depression or changes in urine output—these findings would require more immediate reporting and intervention. This is why understanding the implications of each symptom is important, as they help guide nursing actions in managing a patient's care effectively.

Facial flushing is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate administration due to its vasodilatory effects, leading to the widening of blood vessels and resulting in increased blood flow to the skin. While facial flushing itself may not be immediately concerning, the clinical context is critical. In patients receiving magnesium sulfate, particularly for conditions such as preeclampsia, it is essential to monitor for potential toxicity, as magnesium can have various effects on the body.

The monitoring of vital signs and symptoms is crucial. While facial flushing may occur without immediate harm, other signs of adverse effects, such as decreased respiratory function or low urine output, can indicate magnesium toxicity. Therefore, any unusual clinical findings—especially those that could indicate complications—should be reported to ensure appropriate evaluation and intervention.

In this context, facial flushing is significant but should be monitored alongside other clinical parameters. If more severe side effects develop—such as respiratory depression or changes in urine output—these findings would require more immediate reporting and intervention. This is why understanding the implications of each symptom is important, as they help guide nursing actions in managing a patient's care effectively.