A woman is being administered IV magnesium sulfate. What is a desired outcome related to the administration of magnesium sulfate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In early pregnancy, administering IV magnesium sulfate is often used to prevent seizures in conditions like preeclampsia. The desired outcome related to magnesium sulfate administration is to decrease blood pressure. This is because magnesium sulfate acts as a vasodilator, relaxing blood vessels and reducing blood pressure, thus helping to prevent complications like eclampsia. Option A, increased contractions, is incorrect because magnesium sulfate is actually used to reduce contractions in conditions like preterm labor. Option B, respiratory rate above 18, is incorrect as it is not a direct desired outcome of administering magnesium sulfate. Monitoring respiratory rate is important due to potential side effects like respiratory depression, but it is not a primary goal of magnesium sulfate administration. Option D, increased uterine tone, is incorrect because magnesium sulfate is a tocolytic agent, meaning it is used to reduce uterine activity and tone to prevent preterm labor, rather than increase it. Educationally, understanding the pharmacological actions and desired outcomes of medications used in early pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective care for pregnant individuals. Knowing the specific effects of magnesium sulfate helps in providing appropriate management and preventing complications in pregnancy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Terbutaline sulfate (Brethine) is a beta-adrenergic agent that inhibits uterine contractions by reducing intracellular calcium levels. Adverse effects may include hyperkalemia, hyperglycemia, cardiac dysrhythmias, hypotension, and pulmonary edema. Women commonly experience hand tremors, palpitations, and shortness of breath with chest tightness.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A bulk-producing agent, such as Metamucil, is most physiologic for the mother and safe for the fetus. Mineral oil is not recommended because of the lack of absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Saline cathartics are not recommended because of hypernatremia. Stimulant cathartics are not recommended for the pregnant woman.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) She can continue her HAART unchanged. Educational Rationale: In early pregnancy, it is crucial for pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS to maintain their highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to prevent transmission to the fetus. Discontinuing HAART (option A) can lead to increased viral loads and higher risk of transmission. Increasing dosages (option B) without medical supervision can result in adverse effects. However, simply continuing the HAART regimen unchanged (option C) ensures viral suppression and reduces the risk of vertical transmission. Discontinuing or changing components of HAART (option D) can compromise treatment efficacy. It is important for healthcare providers and patients to understand the significance of uninterrupted HAART during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the unborn child from potential complications associated with HIV/AIDS.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In early pregnancy, oxytocin (Pitocin) is often used to induce labor or augment contractions. The correct answer, "B) Hypertension," is a maternal adverse effect of Pitocin because oxytocin can cause uterine contractions, leading to increased blood pressure. This can result in hypertension, especially if the dosage is too high or the contractions are too frequent or intense. Option A, "Acute confusion," is not typically associated with oxytocin administration. Acute confusion is more commonly seen in conditions like delirium, metabolic imbalances, or infection. Option C, "Edema," is not a direct adverse effect of Pitocin. Edema, swelling due to fluid retention, is not a common side effect of oxytocin administration. Option D, "Inverted T wave," is a cardiac abnormality seen on electrocardiogram (ECG) and is not directly related to oxytocin administration. Inverted T waves can be indicative of cardiac ischemia or other cardiac conditions but are not typically caused by Pitocin. In an educational context, understanding the potential complications of medications used in early pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective care for pregnant patients. Knowing the specific adverse effects of medications like oxytocin can help healthcare professionals monitor patients closely and intervene promptly if any complications arise.