How to Rescue a Patient with Myasthenic Crisis

When dealing with a patient experiencing a myasthenic crisis, immediate and appropriate action is crucial to ensure their safety and improve outcomes. This type of medical emergency requires swift intervention to maintain respiratory function and prevent complications.

Immediate Airway Management

The first step in emergency care is to ensure the patient's airway remains open. If signs of respiratory muscle weakness appear, it's essential to clear the mouth of any foreign objects, mucus, or secretions. Positioning the patient on their side with the head tilted back can help prevent airway obstruction and promote easier breathing.

Emergency Medical Transport

Time is of the essence, so the patient should be rushed to the nearest medical facility as soon as possible. Upon arrival, healthcare professionals will conduct a rapid assessment and confirm the diagnosis. If respiratory failure is imminent or already occurring, mechanical ventilation support should be initiated immediately.

Advanced Respiratory Support

In severe cases where breathing is critically compromised, emergency intubation or tracheostomy may be necessary to secure the airway. These procedures help maintain adequate oxygenation and prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition.

Targeted Treatment and Nursing Care

Ongoing care should include frequent suctioning to keep the airway clear of secretions. Additionally, identifying and treating the underlying cause of the crisis—such as infection, medication changes, or disease progression—is essential for recovery. Close monitoring and individualized treatment plans significantly improve the prognosis for patients in myasthenic crisis.