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Guillain Barré

Patient Presents

Denise, a 37 yo previously healthy female, was admitted to the hospital on 5/27/96 with a diagnosis of pneumonia, upper respiratory infection, and progressive lower extremity weakness.

"I am having a lot of trouble walking," she said. "It must have something to do with my muscles or nerves, because I haven't done anything to cause this. I feel so weak."

By June 2, Denise was unable to move her extremities and displayed labored breathing. She was moved to ICU and placed on a ventilator. The definitive diagnosis: Guillain-Barré.

On June 3rd, a PT / OT / speech referral was received for initial evaluation. Denise was removed from the ventilator. Her trach remained open and patent. Denise was transferred to Rusk Rehab Center on July 17 for evaluation and a treatment plan by the rehab team.

Denise was discharged from Rusk to her parents' home on 9/18/96, on extensive home program and family education.

She will return to Rusk as an out-patient in physical therapy 5 times per week for 2 months.

She continues to be seen daily in PT as an out-patient. Denise is ambulatory short distances with an assistive device. A walker is required for distances greater than 25 feet. A wheelchair is necessary for mall shopping. PT concentration is on advanced balance and reaction activities for community re-entry.