Betamethasone correct answersaccelerations of fetal lung maturity to reduce incidence of
respiratory distress syndrome
12 mg IM, 2 doses, 24 hours apart
s/e: few because of short term use; pulmonary edema
cont: active infection
Betamethasone (Celestone) Nursing Implications correct answersbenefits of corticosterioid
administration to the preterm neonate.
Explain that the drug cannot prevent or lessen the severity of all complications of prematurity.
If they have diabetes explain more frequent blood glucose testing is needed.
Magnesium sulfate indications correct answerspreterm labor occurs before 34th week of
gestation because of infant's risk for respiratory and other complications due to prematurity.
Quiets uterine activity--suppression of contractions.
given so mother can receive a full dose of corticosteroid to speed up lung maturation of fetus.
Also given to mother with high bp to reduce seizure risk.
magnesium sulfate dose correct answersIV
Loading dose:4-6g over 30 min
Maint. dose 1-4g/hr
Magnesium Sulfate (adverse reactions) correct answersDosage related.
depression of deep tendon reflexes, respiratory or cardiac depression if serum levels are high.
Less serious: lethargy, weakness, visual blurring, h/n/v, sensation of heat, constipation; maternal
flushing, dizziness, headache, mild hypotension, modest increase in blood glucose levels
Fetal-neonatal: reduced fetal heart rate, hypotonia
Magnesium Sulfate (Contraindications) correct answersdecision to use is individual based,
should be dilated less than 3cm
Magnesium Sulfate (nursing considerations) correct answersadvise and monitor for adverse
reaction, check heart and lung sounds with hourly vital signs because fluid overload and
electrolyte imbalances can lead to pulmonary edema or cardiac dysrhythmias. Check bowel
sounds every 4-8 hours b/c smooth muscles in intestinal tract may be relaxed just as the uterus is
relaxed.