Acute Neuromuscular Respiratory Weakness Due to Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP): A Simulation Scenario for Neurology Providers

INTRODUCTION: Acute neuromuscular respiratory failure is a source of morbidity and mortality in neurological diseases, including acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP), also known as Guillain-Barré syndrome. It is important for health care providers to recognize this condition and provide early ventilatory support. In this simulation, learners must assess and treat a standardized patient with acute respiratory complications related to AIDP. METHODS: This is a single-session simulation that can be run in a standard simulation center using a live standardized patient. The simulation scenario is followed by a facilitated debriefing session. Details about the simulation scenario, critical action checklist, environment preparation, actors/roles, and debriefing session are outlined. RESULTS: A total of 14 neurology residents participated in this simulation. A postsimulation survey revealed that participants thought the simulation achieved its stated objectives, was useful, and would impact their future practice. DISCUSSION: We designed this simulation to assess a learner's ability to identify acute neuromuscular respiratory weakness in a patient with AIDP and initiate treatment with ventilatory support. This simulation can easily be incorporated into an existing curriculum for neurology residents or for trainees in other specialties.