Emergency treatment for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) focuses on managing critical functions like breathing and circulation.
Initial Emergency Care
The initial emergency treatment for GBS centers around providing life support and stabilization. This is particularly crucial because GBS can rapidly affect the respiratory muscles.
- Airway Management: Ensuring a clear and open airway is paramount.
- Breathing Support:
- Oxygen Administration: Provide supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygen saturation.
- Assisted Ventilation: Be prepared to provide mechanical ventilation if the patient experiences respiratory distress or failure. The reference states: "Administration of oxygen and assisted ventilation may be indicated...".
- Circulation Support:
- Intravenous Access: Establish intravenous (IV) access for administering medications and fluids.
Prehospital and Emergency Department Focus
In the prehospital and emergency department setting, the main objectives are:
- Rapid assessment of the patient's respiratory and cardiovascular status.
- Providing immediate support for breathing difficulties.
- Establishing IV access.
- Monitoring vital signs continuously.
