Diagnosis and Impact of Polio

Study Notes

Diagnosis of Polio

Dr. Wright performed examinations including temperature checks and reflex tests on the patient, revealing unresponsive legs.
A spinal tap was necessary to confirm the diagnosis; results confirmed polio.
Parents were informed of the diagnosis privately before sharing it with the patient, causing panic and distress.
The patient was advised to be transferred to a special polio hospital in Minneapolis due to the seriousness of the condition.

Emotional Impact and Family Dynamics

The patient experienced profound fear and anxiety about leaving home and family for treatment.
Strict precautions were in place to prevent spreading the virus, resulting in no personal goodbyes before hospitalization.
Emotional farewells occurred through a window as parents waved and blew kisses due to hospital protocols.

Hospitalization Experience

Upon arrival at the hospital, the patient was placed in an isolation ward with restricted access.
Medical staff donned masks, creating a sense of isolation and fear for the patient amidst ongoing illness and paralysis.
Initial feelings of exhaustion and fear heightened upon waking to find paralysis affecting bodily functions.

Struggles with Nutrition and Breathing

The patient faced challenges with fluid intake due to the inability to swallow properly, complicating hydration efforts.
It was deemed unsafe to consume milk or ice cream, as these could increase the risk of choking.
A patient nurse attempted to help with liquid intake, but swallowing difficulties led to choking incidents, exacerbating fear of needing an iron lung.

Ongoing Health Decline

Eight days post-diagnosis, the patient experienced persistent high fever, shallow breathing, and muscle spasms.
Feelings of despair accompanied the long duration of illness, with limited enjoyment derived from visits from family and a teddy bear from a friend.
The patient’s mother emphasized the need for more substantial nutrition to aid recovery, encouraging the patient to think of something desirable to consume.

Description

This quiz explores the diagnosis of polio and its emotional impact on patients and families. It delves into the medical procedures involved in confirming the illness and the dynamics of separation during hospitalization. Experience the psychological and social challenges faced by those affected by this disease.