Background of the Study
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the body's immune system attacking the peripheral nervous system. The disorder often begins with weakness and tingling in the limbs, which can rapidly progress to complete paralysis. Although the exact cause of GBS is unknown, it is commonly preceded by infections such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are critical to minimizing complications, reducing mortality, and promoting recovery.
Nurses are essential in the early recognition of GBS symptoms and the management of the condition, as they are often the first healthcare professionals to assess and observe patients. Nurses' roles in managing GBS include monitoring neurological function, providing supportive care, facilitating communication between the patient and the healthcare team, and helping with rehabilitation. However, given the rare nature of GBS, there may be gaps in nurses' awareness and expertise in managing the syndrome.
At the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where both acute and chronic neurological cases are handled, nurses may encounter GBS patients but may lack the comprehensive training and resources to manage the condition effectively. This study aims to assess the level of nurses' awareness and their management practices concerning Guillain-Barré Syndrome, to identify gaps in their knowledge and practices, and propose solutions to enhance care.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the severity and potential for rapid progression in patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, there is limited research into how well nurses are equipped to identify and manage the condition, particularly in Nigerian healthcare settings. At the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, nurses may not be adequately prepared to recognize the early signs of GBS or to provide appropriate interventions. This inadequacy could lead to delayed treatment, which may worsen patient outcomes. This study seeks to examine the level of awareness and knowledge of nurses regarding GBS and to explore their role in managing the condition.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of awareness among nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital regarding the signs, symptoms, and management of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
2. To evaluate the role of nurses in managing Guillain-Barré Syndrome in patients at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
3. To identify the challenges nurses face in the management of Guillain-Barré Syndrome and recommend strategies to improve care.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of awareness among nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital regarding Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
2. How do nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital manage patients diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
3. What challenges do nurses face in the management of Guillain-Barré Syndrome at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital have limited awareness of Guillain-Barré Syndrome and its management.
2. Nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital provide suboptimal management of Guillain-Barré Syndrome due to inadequate training.
3. Lack of resources and insufficient specialized training are significant barriers to effective management of Guillain-Barré Syndrome by nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in the neurology and critical care units at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. It will assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices in managing Guillain-Barré Syndrome. The study's limitations include potential biases in self-reported data, the rarity of GBS cases which may affect the generalizability of findings, and the challenge of recruiting enough participants with direct experience of managing GBS patients.
Definitions of Terms
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and potentially paralysis.
• Awareness: The extent to which nurses understand the signs, symptoms, and management strategies associated with Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
• Management: The clinical practices involved in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating Guillain-Barré Syndrome, including supportive care and rehabilitation.
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