Adult Health

1. Nursing Interventions

2.  Respiratory Support
-respiratory assessment frequently
-ventilatory support or BIPAP
 Mobility
-appropriate rest periods
-ROM exercises
 Medications:anticholinesterases
 Promoting Self Care
 Communication

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

4.  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

5.  Precipitating factors
-Stress
-Infections
-Temperature changes (hot tubs)
-Medications
-Alcohol
-Surgery
 Signs and Symptoms of Myasthenia or
Cholinergic Crisis

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

7.  Communication
-when weak, yes/no questions
-use of gestures
-assistive devices (notepads,pictures)
 Nutrition
-smaller, frequent meals (timed aroundmed)
-high, calorie snacks

8.  Activity Intolerance r/t muscle fatigability and
weakness
 Disturbed Sensory Perception r/t ptosis and
diplopia
 Impaired Verbal Communication r/t muscle
weakness

9.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-
v8XNHE9vH0&NR=1