A client is admitted to the hospital with an exacerbation of myasthenia gravis. What are the appropriate nursing actions? Select all that apply.

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Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease involving a decreased number of acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. As a result, there is fluctuating weakness of skeletal muscles, most often presented as ptosis/diplopia, bulbar signs (difficulty speaking or swallowing), and difficulty breathing. Muscles are stronger in the morning and become weaker with the day's activity as the supply of available acetylcholine is depleted. Treatment includes anticholinesterase drugs (pyridostigmine [Mestinon]) that are administered before meals so that the client's ability to swallow is strongest during the meal (Option A). Semi-solid foods (easily-chewed foods) are preferred over solid foods (to avoid stressing muscles involved in chewing and swallowing) or liquids (aspiration risk) (Option D). All clients with a serious chronic co-morbidity should receive the annual flu vaccine (also the pneumonia vaccine if appropriate) as they are more likely to have a negative outcome if the illness is contracted. It is especially important in clients with myasthenia gravis as the flu (or pneumonia) would tax the already compromised respiratory muscles (Option E). (Option B) An anticholinergic drug, such as atropine, is used for treatment in a cholinergic crisis (eg, the medication is too high or there is excess acetylcholine). The need would not be anticipated during a myasthenic crisis (eg, exacerbation of myasthenia gravis), which is usually a result of too little medication related to noncompliance, illness, or surgery. (Option C) The skeletal muscles are involved in myasthenia gravis; dysfunction of the reflexes or central nervous system affects bowel and bladder control. This issue is classic with multiple sclerosis. Educational objective: Myasthenia gravis involves reduction of acetylcholine receptors in the skeletal muscles; this decreases the strength of muscles used for eye and eyelid movements, speaking, swallowing, and breathing. Treatment includes administration of anticholinesterase drugs before meals, easily-chewed foods, and appropriate vaccinations.

A Client Is Admitted to the Hospital with an Exacerbation