Guillain-Barré syndrome: giving the patient control

The patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) presents a complex clinical picture. Depending on the degree of paralysis, problems with communication can be significant. The patient's inability to express fears, needs and frustrations coupled with the lengthy recovery process makes GBS one of the most difficult diseases for nurses to manage. Nursing interventions, based on Orem's self-care theory, can ease the frustration and feelings of powerlessness a patient with GBS experiences.