Final answer:
Neostigmine is administered to myasthenia gravis patients about 45 minutes before eating to help with chewing and swallowing by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neostigmine is given to clients with myasthenia gravis about 45 minutes before eating. Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that is characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of any of the muscles under voluntary control. Neostigmine works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for signaling muscle movement. Increasing the levels of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction improves nerve signal transmission to muscles, thus aiding with chewing and swallowing which are common issues for those with myasthenia gravis.