A 50-kg (110-pound) 30-year-old female patient has myasthenia gravis. Bedside spirometry has found her VC to be 700 mL and NIF -14 cm H₂O. Vital signs show a respiratory rate of 38 breaths/min, a heart rate of 140/minute, and blood pressure of 130/90 mm Hg. What should the respiratory therapist recommend?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's vital capacity (VC) of 700 mL is significantly lower than the expected value for her size and age, indicating severe respiratory muscle weakness. Additionally, a negative inspiratory force (NIF) of -14 cm H2O suggests poor respiratory muscle strength. The high respiratory rate and heart rate, along with the clinical context of myasthenia gravis, indicate acute respiratory failure. Therefore, initiating mechanical ventilation is the most appropriate recommendation to support her breathing and prevent further respiratory compromise.

A 50-Kg (110-Pound) 30-Year-Old Female Patient Has Myasthenia Gravis