In magnesium sulfate therapy, which action should be taken if the respiratory rate falls below 12 breaths per minute?

In magnesium sulfate therapy, which action should be taken if the respiratory rate falls below 12 breaths per minute?

• A. Maintain bedrest
• B. Implement seizure precautions
• C. Administer calcium gluconate if respiratory rate is less than 12/min
• D. Decrease environmental stimuli

Answer: (C)

Magnesium sulfate therapy can cause respiratory depression if magnesium levels rise too high. A respiratory rate below 12 indicates potential toxicity and requires addressing the excess magnesium directly. The antidote is calcium gluconate, which counteracts magnesium’s effects on the nerves and muscles. So the appropriate action is to stop the magnesium infusion and administer calcium gluconate per protocol, while providing respiratory support if needed and monitoring the patient closely. Other basic measures like bedrest or reducing stimuli don’t treat the magnesium toxicity, and while seizure precautions are important in preeclampsia, they don’t correct respiratory depression caused by excess magnesium.

Magnesium sulfate therapy can cause respiratory depression if magnesium levels rise too high. A respiratory rate below 12 indicates potential toxicity and requires addressing the excess magnesium directly. The antidote is calcium gluconate, which counteracts magnesium’s effects on the nerves and muscles. So the appropriate action is to stop the magnesium infusion and administer calcium gluconate per protocol, while providing respiratory support if needed and monitoring the patient closely.

Other basic measures like bedrest or reducing stimuli don’t treat the magnesium toxicity, and while seizure precautions are important in preeclampsia, they don’t correct respiratory depression caused by excess magnesium.