A patient hospitalized with polymyositis has joint pain; erythematous facial rash; eyelid edema; and a weak,hoarse voice. The safety priority for the patient is addressing the

Question

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The patient's vocal weakness and hoarseness indicate weakness of the pharyngeal muscles and a high risk for aspiration. The other concerns are also appropriate but are not as high a priority as the maintenance of the patient's airway.

A Patient Hospitalized with Polymyositis Has Joint Pain; Erythematous Facial