A nurse is caring for a 34-year-old female client in the labor and delivery unit. Exhibits The nurse prepares to initiate magnesium sulfate therapy for the client. What is the priority nursing action?

Increase the infusion rate to 4 g/hour if contractions persist.

Assess the client’s deep tendon reflexes and respiratory rate before administration.

Stop the infusion if variable decelerations are noted.

Administer an antihypertensive medication prior to starting magnesium sulfate.