After administering calcium gluconate for magnesium sulfate toxicity, which respiratory rate indicates effectiveness of the treatment?

The effectiveness of calcium gluconate in the treatment of magnesium sulfate toxicity is indicated by a respiratory rate that falls within a normal or slightly elevated range. A respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute reflects an acceptable, albeit lower end of normal for adults, which is typically between 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Following the administration of calcium gluconate, an improvement from a rate suggestive of respiratory depression—common in magnesium sulfate toxicity—would be expected.

In contrast, a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, which is concerning and suggests that the treatment has not adequately counteracted the effects of magnesium sulfate. A rate of 18 or 20 breaths per minute may also indicate improvement, but they exceed the lower threshold of optimal respiratory function. Thus, 12 breaths per minute is the rate that best aligns with stability and testament to the treatment's effectiveness, while still being within a clinically acceptable range.