# data[].attributes.body
Works Cited

SAIT - Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, https://www.sait.ca/. Accessed 17 January 2025.

Health Professionals Testing Canada (HPTC), https://hptc.ca/. Accessed 17 January 2025.

The health risks faced by respiratory therapist technicians, Howard J. Stevens, 22 September 2022, https://www.workpains.com/blog/2022/09/the-health-risks-faced-by-respiratory-therapist-technicians/#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20workplace%20dangers,motion%20injuries%20are%20also%20common.

Boise State University. Physical and Technical Job Performance Requirements for a Respiratory Care Practitioner, https://www.boisestate.edu/respiratorycare/job-requirements/#:~:text=Push%20and%20pull%2050%20pounds,)%2C%20squeeze%20with%20hands%20(operate.

“Cedar Tree Tea Benefits.” Cambium Indigenous Professional Services, 12 January 2022, https://www.indigenousaware.com/post/cedar-tree-tea-benefits. Accessed 17 January 2025.

“Cerebrospinal fluid protein in Guillain–Barré syndrome: Need for age‐dependent interpretation.” PubMed Central, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7898894/#ene14600-sec-0011. Accessed 15 January 2025.

“Diet & Nutrition Guidance for Guillain-Barré syndrome & CIDP - GAIN.” GAIN Charity, https://gaincharity.org.uk/eat-your-way-to-a-healthier-you/. Accessed 21 January 2025.

“Electromyography (EMG).” Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/electromyography-emg. Accessed 15 January 2025.

Ford, Henry. “How Does Acupuncture Improve Peripheral Neuropathy?” Henry Ford Health, 19 April 2021, https://www.henryford.com/blog/2021/04/how-does-acupuncture-improve-peripheral-neuropathy. Accessed 16 January 2025.

Government of Canada. “Respiratory Therapist in Saskatchewan.” https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/outlook-occupation/22786/SK;jsessionid=D5EE5F217E051BEA45C2D3D41D330B6B.jobsearch75.

“Guillain–Barré syndrome.” World Health Organization (WHO), 15 August 2023, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/guillain-barr%C3%A9-syndrome. Accessed 13 January 2025.

“Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15838-guillain-barre-syndrome. Accessed 14 January 2025.

“Guillain-Barré Syndrome | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/guillain-barre-syndrome. Accessed 13 January 2025.

“Guillain-Barre syndrome - Symptoms and causes.” Mayo Clinic, 7 June 2024, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/guillain-barre-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20362793. Accessed 13 January 2025.

Herbst, Todd. “Finding Hope: Promising Advances in the Search for a Guillain-Barre Cure.” Dr Richard Dombroski, 22 January 2024, https://www.docdconsulting.com/finding-hope-promising-advances-in-the-search-for-a-guillain-barre-cure. Accessed 16 January 2025.

“HPTC Examination - M.A.R.R.T.” Manitoba Association of Registered Respiratory Therapists, https://marrt.org/site/educ/forum?nav=sidebar. Accessed 17 January 2025.

Millholland, Bill. “Red Lentil Soup with Saffron.” EatingWell, 18 April 2024, https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/7938176/red-lentil-soup-with-saffron/. Accessed 23 January 2025.

“Nerve Conduction Studies.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/nerve-conduction-studies. Accessed 15 January 2025.

“Registered Respiratory Therapist Career Profile | SaskHealthAuthority.” Saskatchewan Health Authority, https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/careers-volunteering/careers/career-profiles/registered-respiratory-therapist-career-profile. Accessed 20 January 2025.

“Respiratory Therapist - Explore Health Care Careers - Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science.” Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, https://college.mayo.edu/academics/explore-health-care-careers/careers-a-z/respiratory-therapist/. Accessed 20 January 2025.

“7 Supplements for Nerve Health.” Enhance Center, https://www.enhance-center.com/blog/7-supplements-for-nerve-health. Accessed 22 January 2025.

Sheikh, Zilpah, et al. “The Functions of the Myelin Sheath.” WebMD, 15 April 2024, https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/myelin-sheath-facts. Accessed 14 January 2025.

“Using and interpreting electrodiagnostic tests.” Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 1 November 2020, https://www.ccjm.org/content/87/11/671. Accessed 15 January 2025.

“What Does a Respiratory Therapist Do? Duties & Salary Info.” Gwynedd Mercy University, https://www.gmercyu.edu/academics/learn/what-do-respiratory-therapists-do. Accessed 17 January 2025.

# data[].attributes.body
The Case

John, 38, was just diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a serious neurological condition that necessitates intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment right away. His health has been deteriorating rapidly and he could potentially have fatal complications if this treatment is not received. But John and his wife, Sarah, would be deeply in debt if they had to pay for the IVIG therapy out of pocket. The treatment costs roughly 10 thousand dollars per treatment, which could result in thousands in debt. Sarah, who is extremely worried about her husband's health, is adamant that John has the treatment since she thinks it is necessary for his survival and recovery, but John does not want the treatment. He would favour his family's financial means more than his ability to walk.

The Ethical Problem

Should John get the IVIG treatment?

Alternatives

A. He receives IVIG

B. He doesn't receive IVIG

Autonomy (What does the patient want?)

John does not want to receive the treatment due to his financial status

Beneficence

Option A. His health would improve and he would be able to go back to living life normally

Option B. The patient's wishes would be respected and he wouldn't be in debt

Maleficence

Option A. John would have to pay for treatment and face financial struggles. His wishes wouldn't be respected

Option B. John's health would only get worse, he would likely lose his ability to walk and might face fatal consequences.

Justice (What is Fair to the Patient?)

It's fair that the patient has some say in how he wants to deal with his illness.

Economic Justice (What is Fair to Society?)

It is fair to our economy that John receives treatment and recover so he can return to normal living and work.

Resolution

Regardless of the expense, the patient is better off receiving IVIG. Since the patient and his family can look for financial support, the patient's life comes first.

Critical Considerations

-If the IVIG treatment caused an adverse reaction in the patient
-If there were less expensive and equally effective substitute treatments
-If his daily life wasn't being impacted by the sickness,
-If the Patient has a history of thrombosis or is at risk for clot formation. IVIG needs to be carefully evaluated because it has been linked to thrombotic events.

Immediate Action to be taken

Give the patient the IVIG to slow down the progression of paralysis. Give Sarah assistance and resources so she may minimize part of the IVIG's funding.

Reflection

Since the patient's illness is so severe and his symptoms would have gotten far worse without IVIG, I decided to give him the treatment even though it would result in financial burden. I also thought that he might not be feeling well because of how rapidly this sickness developed. He lost sensation in several areas of his body just a few days after being diagnosed. I am aware that the patient's mental state would be poor and that there was little prospect for his recovery, which may have contributed to the fact that he had already put his family before himself. The fact that IVIG is the most common treatment and the most effective is another reason I decided to go with it.

# data[].attributes.body
Breakfast

-2 pieces of whole-grain toast topped with scrambled egg whites

-Sliced vegetables on the side

-Large glass of water

-Black coffee or tea (optional)

Lunch

-Red Lentil Soup (carrots, onions, spinach, garlic, chicken broth, tomato paste, cannellini beans, seasonings)

-Large glass of water

Supper

-100g of salmon

-1/2 cup of brown rice

- Green beans

-Large glass of water

Snack

-A small amount of raspberries and blueberries

-Handful of assorted nuts and seeds

-Large glass of water

# data[].attributes.body
What are Micronutrients?

Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals needed by the body in small amounts.

Vitamin B12's Importance to the Human Body

B12 plays a role in blood cell generation, cell metabolism, neuron function, and the synthesis of DNA

Vitamin B12's Importance to GBS

Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health. It supports the production of myelin, the protective sheath around nerves.

Magnesium's Importance to the Human Body

Magnesium supports a healthy immune system, maintains a regular heartbeat, helps bones stay strong, and supports appropriate neuron and muscle function. It also aids in blood glucose regulation.

Magnesium's Importance to GBS

Magnesium is an essential nutrient for healthy nerves. As a cofactor in several enzymatic activities, it aids in the regulation of nerve activity. Magnesium lowers the likelihood of cramps and spasms by promoting nerve transmission and muscle relaxation. It's very helpful for people who have body tingling or pain.

B6's Importance to the Human Body

Vitamin B6 helps the body make several neurotransmitters, chemicals that carry signals from one nerve cell to another

B6's Importance to GBS

Because it aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters that promote nerve transmission, vitamin B6 is crucial for nerve function.

Importance to the Human Body

Vitamin B1 or thiamin is essential for glucose metabolism, muscle, nerve, and heart function.

Importance to GBS

Vitamin B1 is another essential nutrient for nerve health. It plays a key role in nerve signal transmission and energy production.

# data[].attributes.body
What are Macronutrients?

Macronutrients are the nutrients that we need in larger amounts because of the energy they provide.

Why are Simple Carbohydrates Important for the Human Body?

Simple carbohydrates provide energy, and the body breaks them down quickly, so they're handy if you need a quick boost of energy.

Why are they Important for GBS?

People with Guillian-Barre syndrome are not recommended to eat a lot of sugar in their diet, and it's especially important not to get their source of sugar from processed foods. Sometimes, insulin production can be affected by GBS.

Why are Complex Carbs Important to the Human Body?

Complex carbs are important for the body because they provide longer-lasting energy than simple carbs. Fiber is good for digestion and keeps us fuller for longer.

Why are they Important for GBS?

I think complex carbs are more fit for the diets of people with GBS because they come from more natural foods, and if your side effects impact insulin levels these are the preferred carbs to eat because they can decrease the spike in blood sugar levels.

Lipids' role in the Human Body

Fat comprises the membrane of our cells and helps with the production of hormones. Fat insulates our body and cushions, and it helps us store energy.

Importance for GBS

Ensure you eat unsaturated fats. Saturated or trans fats can cause inflammation or worsen symptoms. Eating whole foods is the best way to help with recovery.

Proteins Importance in the Human Body

Proteins comprise amino acids, which build and repair muscles and bones and make hormones and enzymes. They can also be used as an energy source.

Importance to GBS

Like every macronutrient, the healthiest source of protein will be most beneficial for people with GBS. They should avoid getting their source of protein through red or processed meats. Fish is an excellent source of protein but they also provide omega 3s which helps reduce inflammation

# data[].attributes.headline
Respiratory Therapist Career Exploration (Work Enviroment)

# data[].attributes.subject
Respiratory Therapist Career Exploration (Work Enviroment)

# data[].attributes.body
What are they trained to do?

Respiratory therapists perform a variety of tasks. A normal day or shift may include:

Meeting with and assessing patients who have lung diseases, problems, or complications

Evaluating lung capacity and capability through the administration, execution, and analysis of diagnostic and functional tests

Developing treatment programs in collaboration with doctors and nurses

Administering aerosol drugs and chest physical therapy to patients

Assessing treatment outcomes and administering inhalants

Documenting care by updating charts and records
Using devices such as mechanical ventilators

Working with other members of the medical team to finish discharge planning

Teaching patients how to operate equipment and deliver treatments independently

Recommending supplies and care for home health or outpatient

Using strict procedures to protect patients (and other healthcare workers)

What type of facilities do Respiratory Therapists work in?

Respiratory Therapists can work in many places, most commonly in hospitals. They can also work in pulmonary rehab centers, where patients with pulmonary complications can undergo checkups, treatment, and breathing therapy. Some RTs provide at-home care for patients who don't live close enough or cannot travel to another place. They can also work in sleep disorder centers.

Hours/Shifts Worked

RT's typically work 35-40 hour weeks. Depending on where they work, they may work nights, weekends, and holidays, especially if they do direct patient care in hospitals or nursing homes.

Current Wages received in Saskatchewan

The current pay per hour is:

Respiratory Therapist - $38.64 - $47.14

Respiratory Therapist Senior - $41.73 - $50.91

Respiratory Therapist Supervisor - $45.07 - $54.99

Projected employment opportunities in Saskatchewan

The employment outlook will be good for Respiratory therapists in Saskatchewan for the 2024-2026 period.

Physical and Mental Stresses as a Respiratory Therapist

Being mostly on their feet throughout the day can be exhausting for respiratory therapists, particularly if they work a 12-hour shift. RTs must be able to push and pull 50 pounds (for example, when positioning a patient or moving equipment), support 50 pounds of weight, lift 50 pounds (for example, when picking up a child, transferring a patient, and bending to lift a child or infant), carry equipment and supplies, and use their upper body strength (for example, when performing CPR or physically restrain a patient). Working in such a crucial medical profession can make a respiratory therapist's job highly stressful or even traumatic. Being able to breathe is one of the biggest aspects of keeping us alive so working in the respiratory field means that you can witness patient deaths or other stressful events. Similar to nurses, RTs often face burnout for this reason.

Workplace hazards and safety considerations

Exposure to chemicals used in cleaning and disinfection solutions for the equipment they handle is one of the threats they encounter. In addition to diseases and infections transmitted through bodily fluids, skin-to-skin contact, and aerosolized droplets distributed through coughing, sneezing, and breathing, respiratory therapists may also come into contact with bloodborne pathogens. This is more likely to happen to persons who have respiratory problems. RTs use normal measures, including proper hand washing, protective barriers, and caution when using and discarding needles and other sharp objects, to avoid exposure to anything hazardous.

Other professionals Respiratory Therapists work with

RTs work alongside doctors, nurses, pulmonologists, and any other type of healthcare worker.

Additional Information

Respiratory therapy was officially established in 1964 in Canada. The demand for Canadian respiratory treatment arose in the years following World War II when the country's healthcare system was changing quickly due to socioeconomic, environmental, and technical changes

# data[].attributes.body
Where can you train?

If you wish to become a respiratory therapist, you can enroll in any of the many schools offered in Canada, but Saskatchewan offers none. However, interested Saskatchewan students can still find places at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).

How long do you have to go to school?

The program spans over 3 years with 96 credentials (27 courses).

High school entrance requirements

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents:

at least 70% in Math 30-1 or at least 75% in Math 30-2, and

at least 70% in English Language Arts 30-1, and

at least 70% in Chemistry 30, and

at least 70% in Biology 30.

You must also achieve at least 50% in the School of Health and Public Safety's entrance testing process.

Requirements for Respiratory Therapist license in Canada.

After completing your program, you must pass the Canadian Board for Respiratory Care (CBRC) test and receive a license from the Saskatchewan College of Respiratory Therapists (SCRT).

Continuing education requirements

Respiratory therapists can choose to get a two-year associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy; some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree. Some programs may have entrance requirements that include documented volunteer or work experience in an environment with respiratory care, so it may be beneficial to work or volunteer in a hospital or vent center in high school.

# data[].attributes.headline
Different Medicine Treatment Options for GBS

# data[].attributes.subject
Different Medicine Treatment Options for GBS

# data[].attributes.body
In Western medicine, the most common approach involves intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG), where high doses of immunoglobulins are infused into the patient's bloodstream. This treatment helps to suppress the immune system's attack on the nerves and reduce the severity of symptoms.

If someone with GBS wants to take one of the four sacred medicines to improve their health, I would suggest Cedar. Cedar tea and vapors can aid with respiratory problems and strengthen your immune system, which is something that people with GBS may want to do while they're recovering. Because of its antispasmodic qualities, cedar may also help with cramps and muscle spasms.

In the later phases of recovery, traditional Chinese medicine may help alleviate or improve GBS symptoms. The majority of treatments aid in the improvement or relief of discomforts like tingling and numbness. Traditional Chinese medicine states that peripheral neuropathy results from a blockage of the body's blood and vitality, or qi. Our cells and tissues do not get the nutrition they require if blood and qi do not flow freely. Peripheral neuropathy, which is linked to GBS and CIDP, can be effectively treated with acupuncture.

To control their symptoms and aid in their recovery process, many people with Guillain-Barre Syndrome investigate complementary and alternative therapy. Yoga, meditation, and herbal supplements are a few examples of these therapies. Although there is little proof that these methods are beneficial in treating GBS, some people claim that they have found relief and an improvement in their general well-being as a result of using them, as long as they consulted with their doctors to ensure their treatment wasn't interfering with the prescribed treatment plan. GBS affects not only the patient's physical health but their mental health as well, so finding a mixture of treatments to make sure all aspects are well is crucial.

# data[].attributes.body
A lumbar puncture is a test performed to identify specific conditions. It is done in the lumbar area of your lower back. A needle is placed into the space between the vertebrae, or lumbar bones, during a lumbar puncture. Next, a cerebrospinal fluid sample is extracted.

Serious illnesses like meningitis can be diagnosed with the use of a lumbar puncture, and it can aid in the diagnosis of other central nervous system disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis . The procedure is painless and quick, usually lasting 45 minutes at most.Following a lumbar puncture, you can have the following adverse effects:

headache

back pain

bleeding or clear fluid pouring from the puncture site

edema.

Spinal fluid that is healthy should appear crystal clear, but with GBS, the spinal fluid might appear cloudy due to the excess of proteins.

# data[].attributes.body
The nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test measures the speed at which an electrical impulse passes through your nerve. Nerve injury can be detected by NCV. Two electrodes are applied to the skin over a muscle or nerve during the operation. Your nerve is stimulated by a very small electrical impulse from one electrode. It is recorded by the other electrode. Another electrode records the electrical activity that results. For every nerve under test, this is done once more. The distance between electrodes and the time it takes for electrical impulses to move between them is then measured to determine the speed.

The procedure is usually quick and painless, and there are no long-term effects after the procedure. Certain factors or conditions may interfere with the results of NCV tests. This includes damage to the spinal cord and severe pain before the test. Normal body temperature must be maintained before and during the procedure because low body temperature slows nerve conduction and could alter the results of the exam.

# data[].attributes.body
Electromyography (EMG) is a technique used to evaluate muscle response or electrical activity in response to a nerve-stimulated muscle. Neural activity is measured during the test by inserting one or more tiny needles, sometimes known as electrodes, through the skin into the muscle.

An EMG has several advantages, including the ability to "look" into the muscle directly and the ability to evaluate muscle function for its inexpensive cost. The procedure does have some inaccuracies like the detection region could not be representative of the entire muscle, and it is nearly impossible to reposition the needle if necessary.

# data[].attributes.body
Guillian-Barre can be tricky to diagnose in the earlier stages because it shares a lot of similar symptoms to other conditions. A lumbar puncture, Electromyography, or a Nerve Conduction Velocity Test may be used to diagnose GBS. An EMG and NCV may be done during the same appointment because NCV finds a problem with the nerve, whereas an EMG finds whether the muscle is working the right way in response to the nerve's stimulus.

# data[].attributes.headline
The effect GBS has on our cells, tissues, and organs

# data[].attributes.subject
The effect GBS has on our cells, tissues, and organs

# data[].attributes.body
The immune system attacking itself and harming healthy nerves is the initial cause of GBS. This attack may begin as an attempt to combat an infection, such as pneumonia. The possible reason for this could be because certain chemicals found in viruses and bacteria are similar to those found in nerve cells. The peripheral nerves are the nerves that exist outside of the brain and spinal cord. These nerves are in every system, whether it's digestive or respiratory, etc. Due to certain nerves not working right, certain muscles in the body might tingle or stop working. Because it can cause paralysis, muscle tissues might weaken, causing muscle twitching or atrophy. Organs like the lungs can be affected by GBS, and in fact, respiratory failure affects up to 30% of people with GBS.

# data[].attributes.headline
How does Guillain Barre Syndrome affect the physiology of the Nervous System?

# data[].attributes.subject
How does Guillain Barre Syndrome affect the physiology of the Nervous System?

# data[].attributes.body
A nerve cell's fibers are its long, thread-like sections, and the myelin sheath envelops them. The sheath, which is similar to the insulation surrounding an electrical wire, shields these fibers, also referred to as axons.

As with M.S., the neurons' myelin sheath starts to deteriorate. Nerve impulses are transmitted and received rapidly when the myelin sheath is in good condition. However, when the myelin is damaged, these electrical transmissions can't be send as quick and might completely stop working.

# data[].attributes.headline
Which system is affected by Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

# data[].attributes.subject
Which system is affected by Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

# data[].attributes.body
GBS affects the Nervous System, but more specifically, the peripheral nerves. Because of this, multiple systems can be affected, depending on which nerves aren't transmitting signals properly. It can affect the cardiovascular system, for example, some people struggle with either too high or too low blood pressure due to issues with the sympathetic nerves.