Why is it important to have calcium gluconate at the bedside when administering magnesium sulfate?

Why is it important to have calcium gluconate at the bedside when administering magnesium sulfate?

• A. It treats hypotension
• B. It reverses magnesium toxicity
• C. It treats hyperglycemia
• D. It provides sedation

Answer: (B)

Having calcium gluconate readily available at the bedside when administering magnesium sulfate is essential because it serves as an antidote for magnesium toxicity. Magnesium sulfate is often used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia and can lead to elevated magnesium levels, resulting in toxicity that manifests as muscle weakness, respiratory depression, and cardiac issues. Calcium gluconate works to counteract the effects of high magnesium levels, helping to stabilize cardiac function and restore normal muscle and nerve function. In cases where magnesium toxicity occurs, administering calcium gluconate can help mitigate the adverse effects, ensuring patient safety during magnesium sulfate treatment. This proactive measure is crucial in a clinical setting where magnesium sulfate is being used, as timely intervention can prevent serious complications.

Having calcium gluconate readily available at the bedside when administering magnesium sulfate is essential because it serves as an antidote for magnesium toxicity. Magnesium sulfate is often used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia and can lead to elevated magnesium levels, resulting in toxicity that manifests as muscle weakness, respiratory depression, and cardiac issues. Calcium gluconate works to counteract the effects of high magnesium levels, helping to stabilize cardiac function and restore normal muscle and nerve function.

In cases where magnesium toxicity occurs, administering calcium gluconate can help mitigate the adverse effects, ensuring patient safety during magnesium sulfate treatment. This proactive measure is crucial in a clinical setting where magnesium sulfate is being used, as timely intervention can prevent serious complications.