CPM Certified Professional Midwife

Answer: D - Administering magnesium sulfate IV is the least appropriate nursing action during the tonic phase. An eclamptic seizure is a tonic - clonic type. During the tonic phase, maintaining a patent airway is the priority action of the midwife. Oxygen is administered by face mask to protect the fetus during this phase. The client is turned on her side to drain the secretions and prevent aspiration. The mother’s oxygen status and the heart rate of the fetus are closely monitored to ensure adequate perfusion. The midwife may administer magnesium sulfate during the clonic phase.