Question

a client who is recently diagnosed with myasthenia gravis receives a prescription for pyridostigmine, a cholinergic agent. which information should the nurse instruct the client to implement when taking this medication?

a plan the doses close together for maximal therapeutic effect.

b always take with meals to avoid gastrointestinal distress.

c avoid dairy products two hours before and after taking medications.

d take the medication at least 30 minutes before eating meals.

Explanation:

• Option A: Pyridostigmine for myasthenia gravis should be dosed to avoid overdose; close dosing is incorrect.
• Option B: Taking with meals can delay absorption and reduce effectiveness, so this is wrong.
• Option C: There's no interaction between pyridostigmine and dairy products, so this is irrelevant.
• Option D: Taking pyridostigmine at least 30 minutes before meals helps improve muscle strength for chewing/swallowing during meals, which is correct for myasthenia gravis management.

Answer:

D. Take the medication at least 30 minutes before eating meals.