GBS is a serious and life-threatening condition (10% of untreated patients, 3% of treated patients). It can quickly induce respiratory or hemodynamic failure and require constant monitoring and specialized rehabilitation to limit neuropathic pain and the onset of musculoskeletal contractions. The severity of the nadir involvement, the presence of respiratory failure, the rapid progression of symptoms (17 days) to hospitalization, and a high age are the main factors of poor prognosis.
The nurse must prepare the patient by giving him an immunomodulatory treatment, in addition to analgesic treatment in case of pain to relieve the patient during the acute phases.
The treatment uses an immunomodulator: immunoglobulin infusions (Ig i.v.) or plasma exchanges in case of impaired walking, breathing or threat to the airways. It must be started no later than two weeks after the onset of symptoms. In patients with back pain, paracetamol and NSAIDs should be used first-line, dexamethasone (3 x 3 mg / day) may also be useful. Opiates should be used with care.
After the acute phase, the patient usually needs specialized rehabilitation.
