Nursing Interventions
Respiratory Support
-respiratory assessment frequently
-ventilatory support or BIPAP
Mobility
-appropriate rest periods
-ROM exercises
Medications:anticholinesterases
Promoting Self Care
Communication
Observe surgical site:
- transcervical (more common)
-transthoracic( pneumo/hemothorax)
-endoscopic
Monitor respiratory status
Monitor for infection
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
Precipitating factors
-Stress
-Infections
-Temperature changes (hot tubs)
-Medications
-Alcohol
-Surgery
Signs and Symptoms of Myasthenia or
Cholinergic Crisis
Promoting mobility and Self Care
-schedule activities with rest periods
-use of assistive devices as needed
-support of OT/PT
-encourage independence
Communication
-when weak, yes/no questions
-use of gestures
-assistive devices (notepads,pictures)
Nutrition
-smaller, frequent meals (timed around med)
-high, calorie snacks
Activity Intolerance r/t muscle fatigability and
weakness
Disturbed Sensory Perception r/t ptosis and
diplopia
Impaired Verbal Communication r/t muscle
weakness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-
v8XNHE9vH0&NR=1