The Prevalence of Guillian-Barre Syndrome and the Rate of Physiotherapy Referral at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
Joshua Saisha,
Margaret M. Mweshi,
Martha Banda-Chalwe,
Loveness A. Nkhata,
Elliot Kafumukache,
Micah Simpamba,
Namalambo Mwenda - Ng’uni
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 1, February 2016
Pages:
1-4
Received:
16 November 2015
Accepted:
9 December 2015
Published:
21 December 2015
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnpt.20160201.11
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Abstract: Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) which is a post-infective acute polyneuropathy has been known to rarely occur among Africans. It is considered the most disabling neurological condition after poliomyelitis. However, little has been reported on the extent of the problem of GBS in Zambia. Hence the main aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of GBS and rate of physiotherapy referral among the patients that were seen at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) between the years 2011-2013. Data was collected retrospectively from clinical files of patients that were treated in the department of internal medicine during the review period using a checklist. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20 was used for descriptive analysis. Out of 26, 776 new medical cases that were treated in the period under review only 31 cases had GBS giving a period prevalence of 0.116%. The mean age for cases was 33.6 years (SD: 12.9) with the majority 50% (n=16) age range being 18 to 28 years. The most common type of GBS 61% (n=19) was Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP) and the commonest predisposing factor 42% (n=13) was HIV/AIDS. There were more males than females at a ratio of 1.8:1. Most of the patients 68% (n=21) had not been referred to physiotherapy. GBS is becoming a common problem because of a rising prevalence since the advent of HIV/AIDS. Rate of physiotherapy referral among the cases is very low. It is highly recommended that another study on prevalence of GBS be done over a longer period to include other hospitals in Zambia. Physiotherapists in Zambia are also challenged to provide evidence on the impact of the interventions given in GBS management.
Abstract: Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) which is a post-infective acute polyneuropathy has been known to rarely occur among Africans. It is considered the most disabling neurological condition after poliomyelitis. However, little has been reported on the extent of the problem of GBS in Zambia. Hence the main aim of the study was to determine the prevalence o...
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Use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health – Children and Youth (ICF-CY) in the Management of Children with Disabilities
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 1, February 2016
Pages:
5-11
Received:
29 November 2015
Accepted:
15 December 2015
Published:
21 January 2016
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnpt.20160201.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Children & Youths version (ICF-CY) is a universal and multi-dimensional conceptual framework to health, human functioning, and disability with detail to cover functioning in childhood and youth. Since the ICF-CY provides a framework and a structure for collecting and organizing information, it may influence assessment, intervention planning, and the preparation of outcome evaluation. Using the ICF-CY framework could enhance holistic management for children with disabilities and may also guide researchers and clinicians in their selection of an outcome measure for use in a study and/or clinical practice although standard approaches to the evaluation of activities and participation, and environmental facilitators and barriers are required. However, the psychometric adequacy of the ICF-CY has been doubted due to the low reliability and validity hence may not be used in totality as a measuring instrument, but as a screening tool that classifies. The ICF-CY framework clearly has demonstrated the focus of current management practices, as well as strengths and weaknesses in actual practices of childhood rehabilitation.
Abstract: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Children & Youths version (ICF-CY) is a universal and multi-dimensional conceptual framework to health, human functioning, and disability with detail to cover functioning in childhood and youth. Since the ICF-CY provides a framework and a structure for collecting and organizing ...
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