What is the primary purpose of administering magnesium sulfate to a client with preeclampsia?

The primary purpose of administering magnesium sulfate to a client with preeclampsia is to prevent seizures, specifically to manage and reduce the risk of eclampsia, which is a severe complication of preeclampsia characterized by seizures. Magnesium sulfate acts as a central nervous system depressant, helping to stabilize neural activity and minimize the likelihood of seizure occurrence in these patients.

While magnesium sulfate may have secondary effects on other parameters, its main therapeutic action in the context of preeclampsia is its anticonvulsant properties. It does not primarily serve the role of lowering blood pressure directly; although the medication may have some mild hypotensive effects, it is not the focus of treatment. Additionally, it does not enhance uterine contractions, as that could lead to complications, nor is its primary function to improve fetal oxygenation, even though maintaining maternal stability can indirectly benefit fetal well-being.