In the event of magnesium sulfate toxicity, which medication should the nurse have at the bedside?

Magnesium sulfate toxicity can occur during its use for various conditions, such as managing severe preeclampsia, eclampsia, or other issues requiring magnesium as a therapeutic agent. Magnesium sulfate acts as a CNS depressant and can lead to respiratory depression and cardiovascular complications if levels become excessively high.

Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity; it works by antagonizing the effects of magnesium on the neuromuscular and cardiovascular systems. When magnesium levels rise too high, calcium gluconate can help reverse the adverse effects and stabilize cardiac function. It’s essential for nurses to have calcium gluconate readily available in situations where patients are receiving magnesium sulfate, as timely intervention can prevent serious complications, including respiratory failure or cardiac arrest.

Having oxygen, naloxone, or suction equipment can be beneficial in different clinical situations, but they do not directly counteract the effects of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Oxygen may support respiratory function, naloxone reverses narcotic effects, and suction equipment is used for managing airway issues, but these are not specific treatments for magnesium toxicity. Therefore, calcium gluconate is the appropriate emergency medication for addressing this condition.