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

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.