Guillain-Barre syndrome

Etiology / Pathophysiology

• Immune-mediated peripheral nerve demyelination often after infection.
• Ascending weakness can progress to respiratory muscle failure and autonomic instability.

Medications

No specific medication class was seeded for this card.

Nursing actions

• Monitor respiratory function, swallowing, and autonomic changes.
• Assess ascending weakness and ability to cough.
• Prepare for IVIG/plasmapheresis if ordered and ventilatory support if needed.

Complications

• Respiratory failure
• Dysrhythmias
• DVT
• Aspiration

NCLEX cues

• Ascending weakness after illness.
• Vital capacity decline is urgent.

Memory hooks

• GBS climbs up; watch breathing before walking.

Labs / Diagnostics

• Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.

Review notes

• Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.