Staff Nurse - Poliomyelitis
"The symptoms of polio vary with age and can affect anyone that has been in direct or indirect contact with contaminated food and/or surfaces such as unwashed hands. The virus can be absorbed in the intestines into the bloodstream, where it can travel to the central nervous system. It can then damage or completely destroy the motor neurons in the anterior horn of the spinal cord and/or brain. This attack to the central nervous system is the major cause for muscle weakness and paralysis. The variability in the symptoms can be asymptomatic to extensive paralysis and/or death. With systemic abortive poliomyelitis, which is the most common form, the patient will have flu-like symptoms. Low-grade fever, malaise, mild headaches, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea will be the most common symptoms. Once the poliomyelitis begins to affect the central nervous system, it becomes nonparalytic polio. This will occur after one to four days after the initial systemic infection. The symptoms will resemble the symptoms of abortive polio, but will be increased in severity. These include irritability, lethargy, pain, stiffness or spasms in the muscles of the neck , back, arms, or legs. If the poliomyelitis progresses to the next stage, it will be considered paralytic polio, which will affect the patient within 5 to 7 days of the initial infection. The symptoms associated with this stage are spinal stiffness, hypertension, and paralysis" (See web link 'Etiology and Pathophysiology' below). Paralytic poliomyelitis is subdivided into three groups, and the severity of the symptoms will depend on the extent of involvement of the spinal cord, brain stem and cranial nerves. If there is diaphragmatic involvement, death may be imminent because of respiratory complications.
There is no specific treatment, but supportive care can be important in reducing suffering during the acute attack. The maintenance of hydration and nutrition as well as the administration of Acetaminophen may be necessary during the acute phase.
Responsibilities:
- To recognize the signs and symptoms of poliomyelitis. See the description above as well as the link below entitled 'Etiology and Pathophysiology'.
- To provide comfort measures and supportive care.
- To prevent contractures, maintain airway and cardiovascular stability, and prevent bedsores.
- To confer with the head nurse as to the progress of the treatment program.
An ounce of prevention
Etiology and Pathophysiology
Current treatments
Postpolio
University of Hawaii John Burns School of Medicine
