How can the nurse determine that magnesium sulfate therapy for preeclampsia is effective?

Determining the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate therapy in the context of preeclampsia primarily revolves around preventing seizures, which is a critical complication associated with severe preeclampsia. Magnesium sulfate functions as an anticonvulsant, helping to decrease the risk of seizures in these patients. Therefore, the absence of seizures is a direct indicator that the therapy is effective in achieving its primary goal.

While blood pressure control, reduction in edema, and stable vital signs are important and indicate overall management of preeclampsia, they do not specifically measure the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate. Blood pressure can fluctuate for various reasons and may still remain elevated despite magnesium therapy. Edema management is also influenced by other interventions and factors beyond magnesium sulfate. Vital signs, while important, are not exclusive indicators of seizure activity or the specific effects of magnesium sulfate.

Thus, monitoring for seizures is the most direct method to assess the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate therapy in preventing the severe consequences associated with preeclampsia.