A patient has been extremely fatigued for the past 2 months and is having difficulty lifting even light objects at work. The physician suspects myasthenia gravis (MG) and asks the nurse to assist with a Tensilon test. What patient response to the Tensilon test leads the nurse to suspect myasthenia gravis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Tensilon test involves administering edrophonium, a short-acting cholinesterase inhibitor, to the patient and observing for improvement in muscle strength and function. In patients with myasthenia gravis, there is a temporary improvement in ptosis (drooping eyelids) and/or muscle weakness after the administration of edrophonium. Therefore, if the patient's ptosis is temporarily improved after the Tensilon test, the nurse should suspect myasthenia gravis. Dyspnea, muscle weakness, and cramps are not specific to myasthenia gravis and may not necessarily be observed during the Tensilon test.

A Patient Has Been Extremely Fatigued for the Past 2