The nurse is preparing to care for a patient who has myasthenia gravis.
The nurse will be alert to symptoms affecting which body system in the patient?
Gastrointestinal (GI) and lower extremity muscles.
Central nervous system (CNS), memory, and cognition.
Respiratory and facial muscles.
Cardiovascular system and postural muscles.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Myasthenia gravis primarily affects voluntary muscles, especially those involved in breathing and facial movements. Gastrointestinal (GI) and lower extremity muscles are generally not the main muscles affected by this condition. It is an autoimmune disorder that impacts the neuromuscular junction, where nerves communicate with muscles, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.
Choice B rationale
The central nervous system (CNS), memory, and cognition are not typically impacted by myasthenia gravis. This disorder primarily involves peripheral nervous system issues that affect voluntary muscle control rather than cognitive functions. Myasthenia gravis does not cause alterations in memory or cognition as seen with central nervous system disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C rationale
Myasthenia gravis notably affects respiratory and facial muscles. The autoimmune attack on acetylcholine receptors leads to muscle weakness, particularly in muscles controlling eye movements, facial expressions, and breathing. Patients may experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, and maintaining an open airway due to this muscle weakness.
Choice D rationale
The cardiovascular system and postural muscles are not commonly affected by myasthenia gravis. This condition involves the neuromuscular junction and leads to fatigue in voluntary muscles, primarily those involved in eye movement, facial expressions, and respiration. Cardiovascular symptoms are not a direct consequence of myasthenia gravis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Coagulation studies assess the blood's ability to clot and are not directly related to the monitoring of phenytoin therapy. These tests are more relevant for patients with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy.
Choice B rationale
Serum electrolytes, including levels of sodium, potassium, and calcium, are important for overall health but are not specifically indicative of phenytoin levels. Phenytoin may affect calcium metabolism, but it is not the primary focus for routine monitoring.
Choice C rationale
Renal function tests are crucial for assessing kidney function but do not directly monitor phenytoin therapy. Phenytoin is primarily metabolized in the liver, making liver function tests more relevant.
Choice D rationale
Blood glucose levels should be monitored in patients taking phenytoin as the drug can cause alterations in blood glucose levels. Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia have been reported, so it is important to check glucose levels to ensure they remain within a normal range.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The half-life of a drug refers to the time it takes for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce by half. It is not a primary consideration when substituting generic drugs for brand-name drugs.
Choice B rationale
Critical concentration is the amount of a drug needed to achieve therapeutic effects. While important, it is not the main factor in generic substitution.
Choice C rationale
Distribution describes how a drug is dispersed throughout the body's tissues and fluids. This factor is crucial for drug efficacy but not directly related to substituting generic drugs.
Choice D rationale
Bioavailability is the degree and rate at which an active drug ingredient is absorbed and becomes available at the site of action. Generic drugs must have the same bioavailability as brand-name drugs to ensure they are just as effective.
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