A client has been on daily, high-dose prednisone therapy to treat an exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis. His prescription runs out before his next paycheck. He decides to skip his prednisone for a few days. What is likely to happen to this patient when he abruptly stops taking prednisone?

Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of voluntary muscles. Key features include fluctuating muscle weakness that typically worsens with activity and improves with rest, bilateral ptosis (drooping of the eyelids), and difficulty with swallowing and speaking. The fact that the client's facial muscle strength is better in the morning and worsens throughout the day is a hallmark of MG. The edrophonium (Tensilon) test is specifically used to diagnose MG by temporarily improving muscle strength.

Antibodies at the neuromuscular junction

Myasthenia Gravis is caused by the presence of autoantibodies that target acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to impaired communication between nerves and muscles. This is consistent with the described symptoms and the use of the edrophonium (Tensilon) test to diagnose the condition.

A. Cardiac catheterization is often used in the management of an acute myocardial infarction to assess the extent of coronary artery disease and to determine the need for interventions such as angioplasty and stenting. This procedure is crucial for reperfusion therapy, especially in the context of ST-elevation MI (STEMI). Given the client’s symptoms and diagnostic findings, preparing for cardiac catheterization is an appropriate order.
B. While an echocardiogram can be useful for evaluating cardiac function and determining the extent of myocardial damage, it is not typically the immediate priority in the acute management of an MI. The focus is usually on rapid reperfusion therapy and stabilizing the patient. Therefore, this option is less urgent compared to others like administering oxygen and preparing for cardiac catheterization.
C. Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant used for long-term anticoagulation management and is not typically used in the acute setting of an MI. In acute MI management, other anticoagulants such as heparin or low molecular weight heparin are preferred for immediate anticoagulation. Administering warfarin in the acute setting is not appropriate.
D. Furosemide is a diuretic used to manage fluid overload and reduce symptoms of heart failure. It is not indicated as an immediate intervention in acute MI unless there is evidence of significant fluid overload or heart failure symptoms. The client’s current presentation does not suggest an immediate need for furosemide.
E. Supplemental oxygen is important in the management of acute myocardial infarction to ensure
adequate oxygen delivery to the myocardium and to alleviate hypoxia, especially since the client’s oxygen saturation is low at 92%. Providing supplemental oxygen is a standard intervention in the acute management of MI.
F. Sublingual nitroglycerin is commonly used to relieve chest pain in myocardial infarction by causing vasodilation. However, it should be used with caution in the presence of hypotension or other contraindications. Given the client’s symptoms and high heart rate, nitroglycerin could be appropriate,
but should be carefully monitored for effects on blood pressure.
G. A clear liquid diet is not an immediate priority in the management of acute myocardial infarction. Diet modification may be considered later in the course of treatment, but it is not a critical intervention in the acute phase.