Hypermagnesemia

Question 1

Causes of hypermagnesemia

Answer 1

DMAG
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Mangnesium containing antacids and laxatives such as magnesium hydroxide (maalox, milk of magnesia)
Addison diseases
Glomerular filtration insufficiency (kidney failure)

Question 2

Clinical manifestations of hypermagnesemia

Answer 2

Decreased deep tendon reflexes
Decreased energy- drowsiness, lethargy
Bradycardia
Hypotension
Bradycardia
Shallow respiration
Decreased bowel sounds
Respiratory depression in severe cases from weak respiratory muscles

Question 3

Intervention

Answer 3

Discontinue all magnesium containing medication-laxatives, antacids
If renal function is normal, administer IV fluids and loop diuretics to promote renal magnesium excretion
If renal function is impaired, dialysis may be required
Administer calcium gluconate to counteract magnesium ECG effects