When caring for a patient receiving magnesium sulfate for preterm labor, what respiratory finding should be reported?

In the context of a patient receiving magnesium sulfate for preterm labor, a respiratory rate of 11 breaths per minute is a critical finding that should be reported. Magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression, especially at higher serum levels or with rapid infusion rates. A respiratory rate lower than the normal range, which is typically around 12 to 20 breaths per minute for adults, indicates potential respiratory compromise.

A rate of 11/min suggests that the patient may not be adequately ventilating, which could result in hypoxia and further complications if not addressed promptly. It's essential to monitor respiratory patterns closely in patients on magnesium sulfate because they could develop signs of respiratory distress or failure. If the respiratory rate falls below 12 breaths per minute, it often warrants immediate intervention.

In contrast, a respiratory rate of 18/min is within normal limits and does not indicate a concern, while deep, even breaths would suggest adequate ventilation. Wheezing on expiration may indicate bronchospasm, which is also a matter of attention, but the immediate risk associated with a significantly low respiratory rate takes precedence in this scenario.