According to the World Health Organization (WHO), polio is a disease that is highly infectious and viral (2017). The virus that causes polio attacks the nervous system, which in turn causes permanent paralysis within a few hours. This disease is spread by getting into contact with an infected person. If this virus gets into a child through the mouth, it undergoes multiplication inside the intestines and is removed through excretion into the environment. If the hygiene of the community is weak, the virus spreads very fast in the community. If the number of children vaccinated against polio is enough, the susceptibility of the virus is cut off; hence, it dies. There are specific diagnosis and management points that PNP's should know.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of polio involves observation of symptoms, which include breathing and swallowing difficulty, unusual reflexes, and stiffness in the back and neck (Mayo clinic staff 2017). Another diagnosis is through sampling the patient's stool, secretions of the throat, or cerebrospinal fluid for the presence of the virus (Ditunno et al., 2016). The health professional may also use the physical and historical examination of the patient to make a prior diagnosis. Serological tests can also be used to diagnose polio by detection of antibodies that are directed antagonistic to the virus.
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Management
Polio has no cure, which is so unfortunate. Some methods can, however, help in the management of the disease. Diagnosis of polio in early stages and use of supportive treatment, for example, pain control, bed rest, and proper nutrition is helpful. Physical therapy can help in the prevention of formation of deformities that may occur after some time hence reduction of symptoms that are long term (Charles 2018). The vaccination of children against poliovirus is another way of management. Lastly, the administration of pain relievers, which include ibuprofen, which aids in the reduction of fever and pain (Cleveland clinic 2014). These methods help in the management of polio.
Conclusion
Polio is exceptionally infectious and is viral. In areas with poor hygiene, the condition is likely to spread faster compared to highly hygienic areas. Vaccination of many children in a community may help in the prevention of the spread of the disease. Diagnosis of polio involves physical observation, serological tests, sampling of stool or cerebrospinal fluid, and use of history and physical examination records of the patient. Polio has no cure but can be managed by vaccination, early diagnosis, physical therapy, and use of pain relievers.
References
Charles, P.D (2018). Polio. Medicine net. Retrieved from www.medicinenet.com/polio-facts/article.htm#what-are-risk-factors-for-polio-how-does-polio-spread
Cleveland clinic. (2014). Polio: Management and treatment. Retrieved from www.my.cleavelandclinic.org/health/disease/15655-polio/management-and-treatment
Ditunno Jr, J.F., Becker, B. E., & Herbison, G.J. (2016). Franklin Delano Roosevelt: The diagnosis of poliomyelitis revisited. PM & R, 8(9), 883-893.
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Polio. Mayo clinic. Retrieved from www.mayoclinic.org/disease-conditions/polio/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376517
World Health Organization (WHO). (2017). Poliomyelitis. Retrieved from www.who.int/immunization/disease/poliomyelitis/en/
