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(Stroke. 2006;37:746.)
© 2006 American Heart Association, Inc.

Abstracts From the State-of-the-Art Stroke Nursing Symposium

Oral Presentations

An extract of the first 250 words of the full text is provided, because this article has no abstract.

Ischemic Stroke Management

NS1 Neuroscience Nurses as Primary Stroke Responders

Dorothy P Stagno, Inova Fairfax Hosp, Falls Church, VA; Larisa Golding, Inova Alexandria Hosp, Alexandria, VA; Mary E Palm, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA; Barbara Mancini; Inova Fairfax Hosp, Falls Church, VA

Introduction: Rapid response nurses from the hospital stroke unit have proven over seven years to provide accurate assessment of the entering acute stroke patient. In addition, these stroke response nurses have collaborated successfully with neurologists and emergency physicians in the decision-making process for the treatment of the acute stroke patient. Hypothesis: Nurses experienced in neurological assessment can provide rapid identification of acute stroke and mobilize the acute stroke team. Method: The use of nurses as stroke responders began with the completion of the tPA trial and was initially mentored by the research nurses who were expert in application of the NIH Stroke Scale. Neuroscience nurses who were well respected for their expertise were trained in the use of the NIH Stroke Scale. Their passion in the care of the stroke patient and their interpersonal skills aided them in this assertive role. Physician respect and comfort with nurses in this role grew from the tPA trial as the program expanded to include response to all stroke patients presenting to the Emergency Department. A senior neuroscience nurse trained the staff in the application of the NIH Stroke Scale and worked to institutionalize the certification and recertification process. In addition, these nurses are then bridges across the continuum of care for the stroke . . . [Full Text of this Article]