Acute Care

 

The organization of stroke care improves patient outcomes. Successful stroke care begins with the patient and/or family recognizing the signs and symptoms of stroke as a medical emergency. Early identification is critical. Notification of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) by a 911 call initiates the response of a rapid pre-hospital assessment and immediate transport to an appropriate facility.
“Time is brain.”

All patients with suspected acute stroke undergo brain imaging on arrival to hospital and are evaluated to determine eligibility for the intravenous drug tPA (tissue-plasminogen activator). Administration of tPA soon after onset of symptoms can limits irreversible ischemic damage. Care of the stroke patient who receives tPA is provided by a neurologist, an Emergency Department physician, and a nurse.

The patient is then transferred to a dedicated stroke unit for recovery. This unit is staffed by an interdisciplinary health care team of professionals that provide a coordinated, best practice approach to stroke care. Following the acute care phase the patient will transition to a rehabilitation unit, long-term care home or their own home within the community.

Best Practices in Acute Care for Stroke:

• Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Stroke Care updated 2008
• RNAO Stroke Assessment Across the Continuum of Care 2005

 

Public Resources:

• Lets Talk About Stroke – An Information Guide for Survivors and their Families
• Understanding Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

For more information about Acute Care Best Practices related to stroke in the Southwest Region, please contact:

Janet Liefso
Stroke Best Practice Coordinator
Southwestern Ontario Stroke Strategy
janet.liefso@lhsc.on.ca