The nurse is caring for a male patient with myasthenia gravis who ...

[luvbio]

The nurse is caring for a male patient with myasthenia gravis who will begin taking ambenonium chloride (Mytelase). When performing a health history, the nurse will be concerned about a history of which condition in this patient?
 
  a. Benign prostatic hypertrophy
  b. Chronic constipation
  c. Erectile dysfunction
  d. Upper respiratory infection

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a patient who will begin taking bethanechol (Urecholine). Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
 
  a. Excessive sweating is a normal reaction to this medication.
  b. Excess salivation is a serious side effect.
  c. I should get out of bed slowly while taking this drug.
  d. I will not take the drug if my heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute.

[triiciiaa]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
This drug is a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor and is given to increase muscle strength. Cholinesterase inhibitors are contraindicated in patients with urinary tract obstruction.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Patients taking bethanechol should be instructed to report increased salivation and diaphoresis since they can be early signs of overdosing. They should also be taught to rise slowly to avoid orthostatic hypotension and to hold the drug if their heart rate is low.

[luvbio]

Excellent

[sailorcrescent]

TYSM