Final answer:
The nurse should encourage patients with myasthenia gravis to manage their condition by ensuring adequate rest and stress management to prevent exacerbations. It is important to monitor for signs of weakness and adjust activities accordingly, conserving energy and seeking medical attention if symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing arise.
Step-by-step explanation:
In regard to the self-management activities a nurse should include in the discharge education for a patient with myasthenia gravis, the correct answer is B) Adequate rest and stress management. It is critical for patients with myasthenia gravis to avoid exacerbations of their condition, which can be caused by stress and overexertion. Therefore, ensuring that the patient understands the importance of getting adequate rest, avoiding stress where possible, and using stress management techniques is essential. Patients are advised to find a balance between activity and rest and to be aware of the signs of muscle weakness, adjusting their activities accordingly.
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease affecting the acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to progressive muscle weakness and fatigue. Strategies such as energy conservation, scheduling activities that require strength at times when they feel strongest (often after rest or medication), and monitoring for signs of respiratory difficulty or swallowing problems are also important parts of self-management.