Case Study Progress: The physician orders a Magnesium Sulfate bolus of 6 grams then a 2 gram/hr infusion. You prepare the infusion and explain to J.F. what you are doing. As you observe J.F., you monitor for signs of Magnesium toxicity.
1. J.F. asks you, "Why am I getting magnesium now?" Explain your answer.
2. What are the potential signs of magnesium toxicity? (Select all that apply.)
a. Absent DTRs
b. Increased respiratory rate
c. Oliguria
d. Muscle rigidity
e. Severe hypotension
3. Four hours later, a serum Magnesium level is drawn, and the results show 7.8mEq/L. Does this result need to be reported to the physician? If so, what would you prepare to do?
4. Is there an antidote for magnesium sulfate?