What should the nurse monitor in a patient receiving magnesium sulfate?

Monitoring reflexes, respiratory rate, and urine output in a patient receiving magnesium sulfate is essential due to the potential side effects and toxicity associated with this medication. Magnesium sulfate is commonly used in maternity care, particularly for treating conditions such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, and it works as a neuroprotectant for the fetus and a tocolytic for preterm labor.

Reflexes, particularly deep tendon reflexes, are assessed to monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity, which can include diminished or absent reflexes leading to respiratory depression. The respiratory rate is also critical to monitor because magnesium can depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory failure if serum magnesium levels become too high. Therefore, a decrease in respiratory rate or shallow breathing may indicate that the patient is developing toxicity.

Additionally, urine output is monitored to ensure adequate kidney function, as magnesium is primarily excreted through the kidneys. A significant drop in urine output could suggest that the patient’s renal function is compromised or that magnesium levels may be rising too high, thereby increasing the risk for magnesium toxicity.

While monitoring blood glucose levels, fluid intake, heart rate, and blood pressure can be important in managing general patient care, they are not specific indicators for the potential complications associated