What equipment should a nurse have at the bedside of a client with myasthenia gravis to manage potential complications?

For a client with myasthenia gravis, having oral-nasal suction equipment at the bedside is vital to manage potential complications related to this neuromuscular disorder. Myasthenia gravis can lead to muscle weakness, particularly in the respiratory and swallowing muscles. This weakness increases the risk of aspiration and respiratory failure, making it important to have suction equipment available to clear any secretions or manage choking if necessary.

The presence of oral-nasal suction can facilitate quick intervention in the event of an emergency, helping to maintain airway patency and prevent serious complications. This ensures that the healthcare provider can promptly respond to difficulties the patient may experience while breathing or swallowing, particularly during exacerbations of the condition or while undergoing treatment that may induce weakness.

While an oxygen delivery system, monitoring ECG equipment, and intravenous fluid supplies can be important in various clinical situations, they are not as immediately critical for addressing the direct complications associated with the swallowing and respiratory difficulties commonly faced by individuals with myasthenia gravis.