Question

the nurse is planning discharge instructions for a client prescribed pyridostigmine bromide tablets for myasthenia gravis (mg). which instruction should the nurse include in the instructions?

a take the medication 30 to 45 minutes before eating.

b increase activity in the afternoon when the medication is most effective.

c maintain a diet that consists of low - protein foods.

d use a prn dose for increasing muscular weakness or fasciculations.

Explanation:

• For option A: Pyridostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor used for myasthenia gravis. Taking it 30 - 45 minutes before eating helps improve muscle strength for chewing and swallowing during meals, which is a correct nursing instruction.
• For option B: Pyridostigmine's effectiveness typically peaks earlier (e.g., morning), not afternoon, so increasing activity in the afternoon is incorrect.
• For option C: There's no indication for a low - protein diet with pyridostigmine use in myasthenia gravis; this is an incorrect instruction.
• For option D: Pyridostigmine is taken on a regular schedule for myasthenia gravis, not PRN for increasing weakness (and fasciculations are not a typical symptom of MG progression that this drug addresses PRN).

Answer:

A. Take the medication 30 to 45 minutes before eating.