A nurse is admitting a client with myasthenia gravis. Which bedside item is essential to anticipate airway compromise?

• A. Endotracheal tube
• B. Oral-nasal suction equipment
• C. Oxygen administration mask
• D. Nebulizer treatment

Answer: (B)

Weakness of the muscles that control the throat and airway in myasthenia gravis makes it easy for secretions to accumulate and for the airway to become obstructed. Having oral-nasal suction equipment at the bedside allows rapid clearance of secretions or mucus, helping to maintain a clear airway and prevent airway compromise as the patient is admitted and assessed.

Endotracheal tube would be used if the patient fails to maintain ventilation, not as a preventive measure at admission. An oxygen mask supports oxygenation once the airway is already patent, but it doesn’t address potential blockage from secretions. A nebulizer treats certain airway conditions but does not proactively prevent airway obstruction from accumulated secretions.