A patient with myasthenia gravis is prescribed pyridostigmine (Mestinon). When teaching about this medication, what should the nurse teach the patient to immediately report?
Select all that apply.
1. increased weakness
2. problems with increased drooling
3. orthostatic hypotension
4. headache
5. increased difficulty swallowing
Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
An overdose or underdose of anticholinesterase drugs can lead to a myasthenic or cholinergic crisis. The goal of pharmacological therapy is to increase muscle tone; weakness after taking the medication should be reported as soon as possible to offset a medical emergency. Manifestations of myasthenic crisis include increased difficulty swallowing and chewing, muscle weakness, fast heartbeat and restlessness. Increased drooling and lowering of blood pressure should be reported. Headache does not need to be reported.
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