Instructions As A New Nurse: You Have Had Clients With Myast

Instructionsas A New Nurse You Have Had Clients With Myasthenia Gravi

Instructions as a new nurse, you have had clients with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) and are concerned about their level of understanding of the disease process. You have taken on the task of developing a teaching pamphlet to provide clear discharge instructions including information on the disease, support resources, medication teaching, and signs and symptoms of Myasthenic Crisis. You will include the following information in the pamphlet. Describe the disease process for MG. List (2) local community resources available that can provide support such as: Nutrition. Transportation. Psychosocial needs such as support groups. Include medication administration instructions and the importance of timing of medication delivery. Include signs of symptoms of Myasthenic Crisis and when to notify health care provider. Write at least one paragraph to address each criteria.

Paper For Above instruction

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness in the voluntary muscles, which worsen with activity and improve with rest. This condition occurs when the body's immune system produces antibodies that block or destroy acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, impairing communication between nerves and muscles. As a result, individuals with MG experience fluctuating muscle weakness, typically affecting muscles that control eye movement, facial expressions, swallowing, and limb movement. The exact cause of this immune response is unknown, but it is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Management of MG involves medications, immunosuppressants, and sometimes surgical interventions to improve muscle strength and reduce symptoms. Patients may also benefit from physical therapy and lifestyle modifications to help manage their condition effectively.

Support resources are vital for individuals with MG to maintain their well-being and quality of life. Two key community resources include local nutrition services and transportation assistance programs. Nutrition services can provide tailored dietary advice that helps manage energy levels and maintain proper weight, which is crucial for muscle strength and overall health. Transportation resources are essential for patients who experience weakness or fatigue, making it difficult to attend appointments or access care. Additionally, psychosocial support is vital; local support groups specifically for MG patients offer emotional support, shared experiences, and practical coping strategies. These groups help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a platform for education and encouragement from peers who understand the challenges associated with MG.

Proper medication management is critical for managing MG symptoms and preventing crises. Patients are usually prescribed acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as pyridostigmine, which enhances communication between nerves and muscles. It is important to administer these medications consistently at prescribed times to maintain stable blood levels and optimize symptom control. Patients should take medications exactly as directed, usually 30 to 60 minutes before meals or activities that might exacerbate weakness. Skipping doses or taking medications irregularly can lead to inadequate symptom control and an increased risk of crises. Additionally, patients should report any side effects or issues with medication absorption to their healthcare provider promptly.

An important aspect of MG management involves recognizing signs of a Myasthenic Crisis, a life-threatening deterioration characterized by severe muscle weakness affecting breathing and swallowing. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, rapid or shallow breathing, difficulty swallowing, and weakness in the neck and limb muscles. If any of these signs occur or if the patient experiences sudden worsening of symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services. Early intervention can include adjustments to medications, plasmapheresis, or intravenous immunoglobulin therapy to prevent respiratory failure. Patients and caregivers must be aware of these signs and have a plan in place to seek urgent care if necessary, ensuring prompt treatment and reducing the risk of complications associated with a crisis.

References

  • li>Howard, J. F., & Newsom-Davis, J. (2017). Myasthenia Gravis: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Disease-a-Month, 63(10), 372-381.
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  • Yardley, L., & Barnett, R. (2019). Medication adherence in chronic autoimmune diseases. Patient Preference and Adherence, 13, 1043-1051.
  • Hughes, T. A., & Newsom-Davis, J. (2016). Myasthenia Gravis: Clinical features and management. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 87(3), 249-254.
  • National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2022). Myasthenia Gravis Information Page. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/myasthenia-gravis
  • American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association. (2021). Support Resources for Autoimmune Diseases. https://www.aarda.org/disease-autoimmune-articles/support-networks
  • Blumberg, P., & Mace, J. (2019). Managing autoimmune neuromuscular disorders. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 8(6), 826.
  • Walton, C. B., & Shim, H. (2020). Signs and symptoms of myasthenic crisis. Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports, 20(11), 80.

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