An exploratory international survey of the assessments and interventions used by occupational therapists and physiotherapists during the hospitalization of people with Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Abstract

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological condition. Although some people make a substantial functional recovery, almost half require intensive rehabilitation. Data were collected using a cross-sectional survey which investigated the assessments and interventions used by occupational therapists and physiotherapists for people with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Seventy valid responses were received from 10 countries. The survey highlighted four factors about current practice: (i) practitioners did not identify the use of formal clinical guidelines or protocols for Guillain-Barré Syndrome treatment of the upper limb; (ii) a range of standardized and non-standardized assessment and goal-setting tools are utilized; (iii) interventions include passive and active range of motion exercises, and the prescription of upper limb/hand splints; and (iv) interdisciplinary practice is common in the intensive care unit and during acute phases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, whereas discipline-specific work is more common during rehabilitation. A range of goal-setting and assessment tools are used by occupational therapists and physiotherapists during the hospitalization of people with Guillain-Barré syndrome. The type and duration of interventions vary and may reflect the lack of international protocols for Guillain-Barré syndrome rehabilitation.