A patient with myasthenia gravis receives pyridostigmine from the newly-hired licensed practical nurse (LPN). The LPN is practicing safe medication administration if the LPN
Explanation
• Myasthenia gravis affects a person’s ability to swallow. The nurse should assess this ability before administering oral medications.
• Asking the patient to take a sip of water before taking the medication allows the LPN to assess the patient's ability to swallow before administering the medication.
• Incorrect: Looking up at the ceiling will hyperextend the neck and increase the risk of aspiration.
• Incorrect: Before taking the medication, there is no reason for the patient to void.
• Incorrect: Having the patient hold the medication cup if able promotes independence but does not contribute to safe medication administration.