Question

A patient with myasthenia gravis who is on mechanical ventilatory support is being monitored every 2 hours. Recent findings show that the maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) has changed from -30 cm H2O to -18 cm H2O in the last 2 hours. The respiratory therapist should recommend

A. FEV1.0 sec
B. measure tidal volume and vital capacity
C. SpO2
D. FEV1.0/FVC ratio

Answer 1

In response to a decreasing maximum inspiratory pressure in a myasthenia gravis patient, respiratory therapists should measure tidal volume and vital capacity to evaluate lung function and adjust ventilatory support appropriately.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient with myasthenia gravis on mechanical ventilation has a decreasing maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), from -30 cm H2O to -18 cm H2O, which could indicate a decline in respiratory muscle strength. Given these findings, the respiratory therapist should recommend measuring tidal volume and vital capacity. These measurements are essential to assess the patient's lung function and respiratory muscle strength accurately. Furthermore, it provides an understanding of whether the patient's condition is worsening and gives insights into the potential need to adjust the ventilatory support settings.