What it means
magnesium sulfatemag-NEE-zee-um SUL-fateA magnesium salt given by IV or IM to raise a low magnesium level or prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia.Full entry is given IV to prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia and for other uses. Magnesium depresses nerves and muscles, so too much causes loss of deep tendon reflexes, slow and shallow breathing, sleepiness, and in severe cases respiratory arrest and heart rhythm problems or cardiac arrest. The kidneys clear magnesium, so poor urine output makes toxicity more likely.
For the nurse
During an infusion, check deep tendon reflexes, respiratory rate, level of consciousness, oxygen saturation and hourly urine output, and follow the facility's magnesium protocol. If signs of toxicity appear, stop the infusion and notify the provider at once. Keep calcium gluconate, the antidote, at the bedside.
At a glance
| Also written | magnesium toxicity |
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Related terms
magnesium
A mineral in the blood that the nerves, muscles and heart need, measured with a blood test.
preeclampsia
A disorder of pregnancy, starting after 20 weeks, that affects the blood vessels and organs such as the kidneys, liver and brain.
magnesium sulfate
A magnesium salt given by IV or IM to raise a low magnesium level or prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia.
MgSO4
The chemical shorthand for magnesium sulfate, banned from medication orders by the Joint Commission.