A Patient with Myasthenia Gravis Who Is Taking a Cholinesterase

question 4

Multiple Choice

A patient with myasthenia gravis who is taking a cholinesterase inhibitor is being admitted to the intensive care unit and is on mechanical ventilation. The prescriber has ordered a challenge dose of edrophonium to distinguish between a myasthenic crisis and a medication overdose. The nurse will expect to do what?

• A) Administer neostigmine if muscle strength decreases.
• B) Be prepared to administer atropine and oxygen if muscle weakness increases.
• C) Give a second dose of edrophonium if no improvement is seen.
• D) Give pralidoxime [Protopam] if cholinergic symptoms worsen.

---

Definitions:

Assessment Techniques

Methods and tools used to evaluate, measure, and document the abilities, skills, performance, or characteristics of individuals or groups.

Educational Attainment

The highest level of education an individual has completed.

High Motivation

A strong drive or eagerness to achieve goals and accomplish tasks.

Dual Diagnosis

The co-occurrence of substance abuse or dependence alongside another psychiatric disorder, creating a complex condition that can be challenging to treat.