Myasthenia Gravis Nursing Interventions Nursing Interventions for Acute

Myasthenia Gravis Nursing Interventions

Nursing Interventions for Acute Care/Crisis Respiratory Support -respiratory assessment frequently -ventilatory support or BIPAP Mobility -appropriate rest periods -ROM exercises Ø Medications: anticholinesterases Ø Promoting Self Care Ø Communication

Postop Thymectomy Observe surgical site: - transcervical (more common) -transthoracic( pneumo/hemothorax) -endoscopic Monitor respiratory status Monitor for infection

Patient Education Medications -importance of taking meds on time -know meds and side effects -what meds to avoid: antibiotics (icin, mycin, xacin) beta blockers (“ol” drugs) opoids antihistamines -keep extra supply in car/at work

Patient Education Ø Precipitating factors -Stress -Infections -Temperature changes (hot tubs) -Medications -Alcohol -Surgery Ø Signs and Symptoms of Myasthenia or Cholinergic Crisis

Patient Education Promoting mobility and Self Care -schedule activities with rest periods -use of assistive devices as needed -support of OT/PT -encourage independence

Patient Education Communication -when weak, yes/no questions -use of gestures -assistive devices (notepads, pictures) Ø Nutrition -smaller, frequent meals (timed around med) -high, calorie snacks

Nursing Diagnosis Activity Intolerance r/t muscle fatigability and weakness Disturbed Sensory Perception r/t ptosis and diplopia Impaired Verbal Communication r/t muscle weakness

Video for Myasthnia Gravis http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=v 8 XNHE 9 v. H 0&NR=1