Question

The nurse is performing an initial assessment on a client admitted to rule out Guillain-Barre syndrome. On which of the following areas will the nurse focus most heavily?

a. Respiratory
b. Gastrointestinal
c. Skin
d. Urinary

Answer 1

In assessing a client for Guillain-Barre syndrome, the nurse will prioritize respiratory function due to the risk of respiratory failure from the weakening of respiratory muscles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse performing an initial assessment on a client admitted to rule out Guillain-Barre syndrome will focus most heavily on the respiratory area. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a disorder where the body's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system.

Symptoms can rapidly progress to respiratory failure due to the weakening of the respiratory muscles, making respiratory assessment crucial. The nurse will carefully monitor the patient's ability to breathe independently and watch for signs of respiratory distress.

Additionally, close observation for autonomic dysfunction, which can affect blood pressure and heart rate, is necessary.