A Patient Who Is a Chronic Alcoholic Is Admitted to the Hospital

question 5

Multiple Choice

A patient who is a chronic alcoholic is admitted to the hospital. Admission laboratory work reveals a magnesium level of 1.2 mEq/L. The prescriber orders intravenous magnesium sulfate in a 10% solution at a rate of 10 mL/min. What will the nurse do?

• A) Administer the IV dose as ordered and have calcium gluconate on hand.
• B) Administer the IV dose and make preparations for mechanical ventilation.
• C) Hold the IV dose until the infusion rate has been clarified with the provider.
• D) Request an order for renal function tests before administering the IV dose.