What is a potential effect of giving magnesium sulfate to a client with severe preeclampsia?

Administering magnesium sulfate to a client with severe preeclampsia is primarily aimed at preventing and controlling seizures, a condition known as eclampsia. Magnesium acts as a central nervous system depressant, which helps to stabilize neuronal activity and reduce the likelihood of seizure occurrences. Its anticonvulsant properties are particularly beneficial in this context, making decreased seizure activity the desired and correct outcome of magnesium sulfate administration in such cases.

While magnesium sulfate can influence other physiological functions, such as muscle relaxation or promoting a decrease in blood pressure indirectly, its primary and most crucial effect in the scenario of severe preeclampsia is the significant reduction in seizure activity, which can lead to better maternal and fetal outcomes.