The nurse is providing education for a client diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG) taking pyridostigmine. The nurse understands teaching has been effective when the client states, "I will
use pyridostigmine as needed to relieve symptoms of muscle weakness and fatigue."
be able to crush the sustained release tablet because of difficulty swallowing."
skip a dose if I have symptoms of fatigue to minimize side effects of the medications."
take pyridostigmine 30-60 minutes before meals to improve muscle function."
The Correct Answer is D
A. Use pyridostigmine as needed to relieve symptoms of muscle weakness and fatigue: Pyridostigmine should not be used on an "as-needed" basis, as it is a long-acting medication that works by maintaining a steady level of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. The client needs to take the medication regularly at prescribed intervals, not sporadically, to maintain consistent symptom control. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the medication's use.
B. Be able to crush the sustained release tablet because of difficulty swallowing: Sustained-release (or extended-release) tablets should not be crushed because doing so can cause the medication to be released too quickly, leading to potential side effects or overdose. If the client has difficulty swallowing, an alternative form of the medication, such as a liquid or split tablet, should be considered. This statement reflects a lack of understanding regarding the proper administration of the medication.
C. Skip a dose if I have symptoms of fatigue to minimize side effects of the medications: Skipping doses of pyridostigmine is not appropriate. The medication should be taken as prescribed, even if the client feels fatigued. Fatigue is a symptom of myasthenia gravis, not necessarily a side effect of the medication. Consistent dosing is important for controlling the disease and preventing worsening of symptoms. Skipping doses can lead to inadequate symptom control and potential exacerbation of weakness.
D. Take pyridostigmine 30-60 minutes before meals to improve muscle function: This statement indicates that the client understands the appropriate use of pyridostigmine for managing myasthenia gravis (MG). Pyridostigmine is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that helps improve neuromuscular transmission, and it is typically taken 30-60 minutes before meals. This timing helps optimize muscle strength during the period when the client is eating, as muscle weakness can make swallowing more difficult. By taking the medication before meals, the client is more likely to experience improved muscle function when needed most.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Arrange for social service consult for assistance with medication purchase:
While arranging for social service support can be beneficial in ensuring the client has access to necessary medications, this is not directly related to fall prevention at home. Falls in Parkinson's disease are more closely associated with mobility, balance, and environmental factors, which should be the focus of interventions aimed at reducing fall risk. Medication access is important but secondary to safety measures related to physical environment and mobility.
B) Have the client seen by a nursing assistant 3 times a week for hygiene:
While assistance with hygiene can certainly help support the client’s daily needs, the frequency of visits for hygiene care alone does not specifically address fall prevention. Falls are more directly linked to issues such as impaired balance, freezing episodes, and poor mobility—issues that should be addressed through environmental modifications and specific interventions aimed at improving safety during ambulation and transfers.
C) Ensure adequate lighting in areas where the client will ambulate:
Ensuring adequate lighting in areas where the client will ambulate is a critical intervention for fall prevention in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease often causes balance and coordination problems, and inadequate lighting can increase the risk of tripping or falling, especially at night or in poorly lit areas. Proper lighting helps the client see obstacles and navigate their environment safely. This intervention directly addresses a key factor in fall risk and is an important part of the plan of care.
D) Refer the client to a nutritionist to address dietary measures:
Referral to a nutritionist can be helpful in managing some aspects of Parkinson's disease, particularly for addressing issues like constipation, weight management, or dysphagia. However, dietary measures do not have a direct impact on fall prevention. Fall prevention should focus more on mobility, strength, environmental safety, and managing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease that affect balance and movement.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Call for the rapid response team and request a portable chest x-ray: While it is important to call for help and obtain imaging if needed, the immediate action is to address the potential pneumothorax by sealing the wound. The rapid response team and chest x-ray are necessary for further assessment, but securing the wound is the priority in the moment.
B. Turn the suction drainage system off and auscultate breath sounds: Turning off the suction drainage system and auscultating breath sounds may be part of subsequent assessment and care, but these actions are secondary to stopping the entry of air into the pleural space. Auscultating breath sounds would be important after the chest tube is secured to assess for signs of pneumothorax or other complications, but it is not the first priority.
C. Apply a sterile dressing and tape on three sides: The first priority when a chest tube becomes accidentally dislodged is to seal the wound to prevent air from entering the pleural space, which could cause a pneumothorax (collapsed lung). The correct method to seal the chest tube insertion site is to apply a sterile dressing and tape it on three sides. This technique allows air to escape from the pleural space but prevents air from entering, creating a temporary "one-way valve" effect. This is crucial in stabilizing the patient until further medical intervention can be provided. The fourth side of the dressing is left open to allow for air to escape, which helps prevent a tension pneumothorax
D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately: While notifying the healthcare provider is important, securing the wound to prevent further air entry is the immediate priority. Notifying the provider can occur after the dressing is applied. Prompt action to stabilize the chest tube site is crucial to prevent further respiratory distress or complications.
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