Nursing care plan for myasthenia gravis

Introduction

Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and rapid fatigue of the voluntary muscles. It is caused by a problem with transmission of signals from the nerves to the muscles. To provide care to patients with myasthenia gravis, a nursing care plan must be developed.

Assessment

Muscle Weakness: Patients with myasthenia gravis experience muscle weakness throughout the body,which can vary in severity depending on the patient's overall condition. This weakness can be experienced in the face, arms, legs, breathing muscles, and even the small muscles in the hands and feet.

Extreme Fatigue: The extreme fatigue associated with myasthenia gravis can cause significant impairment in daily activities. This type of fatigue is often experienced even after periods of rest or decreased activity.

Presence of Antibodies: Patients with myasthenia gravis may have antibodies which impair the normal transmission of signals from the nerves to the muscles. These antibodies can interfere with the release of acetylcholine, a chemical responsible for transmitting signals from the nerves to the muscles.

Nursing Diagnosis

Ineffective airway clearance: Patients with myasthenia gravis may not be able to effectively clear secretions from their lungs due to the muscle weakness. This can lead to respiratory infections, which can make it difficult for the patient to breathe.

Impaired physical mobility: Due to the muscle weakness, patients with myasthenia gravis may not be able to move around as much as they would like. This can lead to difficulty with performing activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and toileting.

Pain: Due to the muscle weakness, patients with myasthenia gravis may experience pain in their joints and muscles. This pain can be especially intense during periods of activity.

Outcomes

Patients with myasthenia gravis should be able to maintain effective airway clearance and be able to move around independently with less fatigue. The pain associated with the muscle weakness should be managed and minimized.

Interventions

Monitor Respiratory Status: The patient's respiratory status should be monitored for changes in lung sounds, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate. The patient should be instructed on proper techniques for deep breathing exercises, coughing, and suctioning.

Assist with Mobility: Patients with myasthenia gravis may need assistance with moving around. The nurse should provide support and assistance as needed to help the patient move safely and with less fatigue.

Encourage Rest: The patient should be encouraged to take frequent rest periods throughout the day in order to conserve energy and reduce fatigue. The patient should also be instructed to avoid any activities that will cause increased fatigue.

Manage Pain: The patient's pain should be monitored and managed appropriately with medications and/or other therapies. The patient should be educated on strategies for pain relief such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation techniques.

Rationales

Monitoring the patient's respiratory status will help ensure that the patient is able to maintain effective airway clearance. Assistance with mobility will help the patient move around with less fatigue and maintain independence. Encouraging rest will conserve the patient's energy and minimize fatigue. Managing the patient's pain will help minimize discomfort and the risk of injury.

Evaluation

The nurse should monitor the patient's respiratory status, mobility, fatigue, and pain levels to assess whether the patient is achieving the desired outcomes. If the patient is not making progress towards these outcomes, then the nurse should reassess the nursing care plan and modify interventions as necessary.

Conclusion

A nursing care plan for myasthenia gravis should include assessment, nursing diagnosis, desired outcomes, and interventions to manage the patient's muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, and presence of antibodies. By following this plan and monitoring the patient's response, the nurse can ensure that the patient is receiving the best possible care.

FAQs

• What is myasthenia gravis? Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and fatigue of the voluntary muscles.
• What are the symptoms of myasthenia gravis? Symptoms of myasthenia gravis include muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, and difficulty breathing.
• What is the treatment for myasthenia gravis? Treatment for myasthenia gravis usually includes medications, lifestyle changes, and therapies to reduce fatigue and manage pain.
• What is the prognosis for myasthenia gravis? Most people with myasthenia gravis can live normal lives with regular treatments, medications, and lifestyle changes.
• Can exercise help with myasthenia gravis? Exercise can be beneficial for people with myasthenia gravis as it can help strengthen weakened muscles and reduce fatigue. However, it is important to discuss with a doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.