A nurse is caring for a client that has been recently diagnosed with Guillian-Barre syndrome. What would the nurse consider to be common risk factors associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GB5)? (select all that apply)
Associated with recent vaccination
Associated with tobacco use
Recent surgical experience
Presence of a thymus gland
Associated with exposure to a recent viral infection
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A) Associated with recent vaccination:
Vaccinations, particularly those for influenza and other viral infections, have been linked to an increased risk of GBS in some cases. This association is believed to be due to an immune response that may trigger the autoimmune attack on the peripheral nervous system, leading to GBS.
B) Associated with tobacco use:
While smoking has been associated with various health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, there is no established direct link between tobacco use and the development of GBS. The pathophysiology of GBS is more strongly related to infections and certain immune responses rather than lifestyle factors like smoking.
C) Recent surgical experience:
It is believed that the stress from surgery, particularly in the presence of an infection or immune response, may trigger the development of GBS. Infections, especially bacterial infections like those caused by Campylobacter jejuni, which is a common antecedent of GBS, can sometimes occur after surgery.
D) Presence of a thymus gland:
The thymus is involved in the immune system, particularly in the development of T-cells, but there is no direct correlation between the thymus gland and the onset of GBS. GBS is more closely related to infections (viral or bacterial), recent vaccinations, or surgery rather than anatomical features like the thymus.
E) Associated with exposure to a recent viral infection:
Viral infections such as Zika virus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), influenza, and others can trigger an autoimmune response that leads to the development of GBS. Infections are the most common precipitating factor for GBS, and the immune system’s response to the viral infection may cause the body to mistakenly attack its own peripheral nerves, leading to the symptoms of GBS.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Retake the vital signs:
While taking vital signs is important, the client’s vital signs (respiratory rate of 13 bpm, oxygen saturation of 92%, and normal skin color) suggest that there is no immediate crisis, such as a sudden drop in oxygen saturation or significant hemodynamic instability. Therefore, retaking the vital signs would not address the most urgent issue at the moment, which is the client's shortness of breath while laying down.
B) Call the healthcare provider:
Calling the healthcare provider may eventually be necessary if the patient's condition worsens or remains unrelieved after interventions. However, the first priority should be to manage the client’s immediate symptoms and improve their comfort. The client’s complaint of shortness of breath when lying down suggests that the positioning may be a contributing factor to their discomfort.
C) Place the client in Fowler's position:
The most appropriate first action for a client with end-stage COPD and shortness of breath while lying down is to place the client in Fowler's position. This position (sitting upright, typically at a 45-60° angle) helps to improve lung expansion and reduce the workload of breathing by using gravity to assist in lung ventilation. It also promotes diaphragmatic breathing, which can relieve the feeling of breathlessness.
D) Increase the oxygen rate:
The client is already on 6 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula and has an oxygen saturation of 92%, which is within an acceptable range for a patient with COPD. Increasing the oxygen rate further could risk causing oxygen toxicity or lead to CO2 retention in clients with COPD, as their respiratory drive is often driven by low oxygen levels rather than high carbon dioxide levels. Thus, increasing the oxygen rate should be done cautiously and only if clinically indicated by a healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Assess the client's potassium level:
While electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium, can contribute to symptoms like restlessness or muscle weakness, it is not the first priority in a client with COPD who suddenly becomes restless and anxious. Restlessness and anxiety in this context are more likely to be due to hypoxia (low oxygen levels), hypercapnia (high carbon dioxide levels), or respiratory distress.
B) Check the client's temperature:
An elevated temperature may indicate an infection, such as pneumonia or a respiratory tract infection, which can exacerbate COPD symptoms. However, in the context of sudden restlessness and anxiety, this is less likely to be the most immediate cause. The primary concern should be addressing the potential respiratory issues, such as hypoxia or acute exacerbation, rather than focusing on fever, unless other signs of infection are present.
C) Increase the client's oxygen flow rate to 15 L/min:
While it is important to ensure adequate oxygenation in a client with COPD, increasing the oxygen flow rate to 15 L/min may not be appropriate, as COPD patients are typically at risk for oxygen-induced hypercapnia. These patients often rely on low levels of oxygen to stimulate breathing, and administering high-flow oxygen can suppress their respiratory drive, potentially worsening carbon dioxide retention.
D) Encourage the client to perform pursed-lip breathing:
Pursed-lip breathing is a highly effective technique for COPD patients to help increase oxygenation and decrease the work of breathing. This technique involves the client breathing in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips, which helps to keep the airways open longer and facilitates the removal of trapped air in the lungs.
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