Which medication is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia as described in Renee Workman's materials?

Which medication is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia as described in Renee Workman's materials?

• A. Magnesium sulfate continuous IV infusion @ 2 g/hr
• B. Dinoprostone insert vaginally
• C. Restrict hourly fluids
• D. Ephedrine

Answer: (A)

Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia. It works by calming the nervous system and reducing neuromuscular excitability, effectively lowering the risk that preeclampsia will progress to eclamptic seizures. In practice, a loading dose is given to rapidly achieve therapeutic levels, followed by a maintenance IV infusion to keep those levels steady, often around 1–2 g per hour after the initial dose. Close monitoring is essential: check reflexes, watch breathing and urine output, and measure magnesium levels if available. Signs of toxicity include diminished deep tendon reflexes and respiratory depression; if toxicity occurs, calcium gluconate is the antidote. This approach is specific to seizure prevention in preeclampsia; other measures listed are not used for this purpose—induction or ripening of the cervix, fluid restriction as a seizure strategy, or treating low blood pressure, none of which prevent seizures.

Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia. It works by calming the nervous system and reducing neuromuscular excitability, effectively lowering the risk that preeclampsia will progress to eclamptic seizures. In practice, a loading dose is given to rapidly achieve therapeutic levels, followed by a maintenance IV infusion to keep those levels steady, often around 1–2 g per hour after the initial dose. Close monitoring is essential: check reflexes, watch breathing and urine output, and measure magnesium levels if available. Signs of toxicity include diminished deep tendon reflexes and respiratory depression; if toxicity occurs, calcium gluconate is the antidote. This approach is specific to seizure prevention in preeclampsia; other measures listed are not used for this purpose—induction or ripening of the cervix, fluid restriction as a seizure strategy, or treating low blood pressure, none of which prevent seizures.