GBS knowledge check

Guillain-Barre signs and symptoms can be described as:

• A disorder of the nervous system causing muscle weakness
• A disorder of the digestive system causing stomach pain
• A disorder of the respiratory system causing shortness of breath
• A disorder of the circulatory system causing high blood pressure

Answer explanation

Etiology & Pathophysiology-exact etiology is unknown

Which of the following is the etiology for Guillain-Barre?

• Autoimmune response following a bacterial or viral infection
• Genetic mutation
• Exposure to radiation
• High cholesterol levels

Typical signs and symptoms for Guillain-Barre include:

• Fever and cough
• Muscle weakness and numbness
• Skin rash and itching
• Headache and dizziness

Guillain-Barre symptoms:

• start distal to proximal

• starts proximal to distal

• returns distal to proximal

• is variable

Answer explanation

Onset begins with weakness distal to proximal (symmetrical weakness)

uResolves proximal to distal

Overuse weakness is described as:

• A condition where a muscle becomes too strong
• A state where a muscle is used too frequently without rest
• A situation where a muscle is not used enough
• A state where a muscle is used beyond its capacity leading to injury

Answer explanation

DOMS-worsens 1-5 days post ex

Which of the following should be avoided for the patient with Guillain-Barre?

• eccentric strengthening

• gravity-minimized exercises

• facilitation activities

• inhibition techniques