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BACKGROUND: In the context of expanding digital health tools, the health system is ready for Learning Health System (LHS) models. These models, with proper governance and stakeholder engagement, enable the integration of digital infrastructure to provide feedback to all relevant parties including clinicians and consumers on performance against best practice standards, as well as fostering innovation and aligning healthcare with patient needs. The LHS literature primarily includes opinion or consensus-based frameworks and lacks validation or evidence of benefit. Our aim was to outline a rigorously codesigned, evidence-based LHS framework and present a national case study of an LHS-aligned national stroke program that has delivered clinical benefit. MAIN TEXT: Current core components of a LHS involve capturing evidence from communities and stakeholders (quadrant 1), integrating evidence from research findings (quadrant 2), leveraging evidence from data and practice (quadrant 3), and generating evidence from implementation (quadrant 4) for iterative system-level improvement. The Australian Stroke program was selected as the case study as it provides an exemplar of how an iterative LHS works in practice at a national level encompassing and integrating evidence from all four LHS quadrants. Using this case study, we demonstrate how to apply evidence-based processes to healthcare improvement and embed real-world research for optimising healthcare improvement. We emphasize the transition from research as an endpoint, to research as an enabler and a solution for impact in healthcare improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The Australian Stroke program has nationally improved stroke care since 2007, showcasing the value of integrated LHS-aligned approaches for tangible impact on outcomes. This LHS case study is a practical example for other health conditions and settings to follow suit.
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Aprendizaje del Sistema de Salud , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Australia , Medicina Basada en la Evidencia , Práctica Clínica Basada en la Evidencia/métodosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Knowledge of stroke is essential to empower people to reduce their risk of these events. However, valid tools are required for accurate and reliable measurement of stroke knowledge. We aimed to systematically review contemporary stroke knowledge assessment tools and appraise their content validity, feasibility, and measurement properties. METHODS: The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023403566). Electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched to identify published articles (1 January 2015-1 March 2023), in which stroke knowledge was assessed using a validated tool. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts prior to undertaking full-text review. COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methods guided the appraisal of content validity (relevance, comprehensiveness, comprehensibility), feasibility, and measurement properties. RESULTS: After removing duplicates, the titles and abstracts of 718 articles were screened; 323 reviewed in full; with 42 included (N = 23 unique stroke knowledge tools). For content validity, all tools were relevant, two were comprehensive, and seven were comprehensible. Validation metrics were reported for internal consistency (n = 20 tools), construct validity (n = 17 tools), cross-cultural validity (n = 15 tools), responsiveness (n = 9 tools), reliability (n = 7 tools), structural validity (n = 3 tools), and measurement error (n = 1 tool). The Stroke Knowledge Test met all content validity criteria, with validation data for six measurement properties (n = 3 rated "Sufficient"). CONCLUSION: Assessment of stroke knowledge is not standardised and many tools lacked validated content or measurement properties. The Stroke Knowledge Test was the most comprehensive but requires updating and further validation for endorsement as a gold standard.
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Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Accidente Cerebrovascular/diagnóstico , Bases de Datos Factuales , PsicometríaRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: Post-stroke mental health impairments are common, but under-assessed and under-treated. We aim to describe trends in the provision of mood management to patients with stroke, and describe factors associated with adoption of national mood management recommendations for stroke within Australian hospitals. DESIGN: Secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from the biennial Stroke Foundation Audit Program. SETTING: Participating acute (2011-2021) and rehabilitation hospitals (2012-2020) in Australia. PARTICIPANTS: In the acute audit, 22,937 stroke cases were included from 133 hospitals. In the rehabilitation audit, 15,891 stroke cases were included from 127 hospitals. MAIN MEASURES: Hospital- and patient-level mood management processes. RESULTS: Among 133 acute hospitals (22,937 stroke episodes), improvements were made between 2011 and 2021 in utilization of mood screening (17% [2011], 33% [2021]; p < 0.001) and access to psychologists during hospital stay (18% [2011], 45% [2021]; p < 0.001). There was no change in access to a psychologist among those with a mood impairment (p = 0.34). Among 127 rehabilitation hospitals (15,891 stroke episodes) improvements were observed for mood screening (35% [2012], 61% [2020]; p < 0.001), and access to a psychologist during hospital stay (38% [2012], 68% [2020]; p < 0.001) and among those with a mood-impairment (30% [2012], 50% [2020]; p < 0.001). Factors associated with receiving mood management processes included: younger age, not requiring an interpreter and longer length of stay. CONCLUSIONS: Adherence to mood management recommendations has improved over 10 years within Australian hospitals. Those aged over 65, requiring an interpreter, or with shorter hospital stays are at risk of missing out on appropriate mood management.
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Hospitales de Rehabilitación , Trastornos del Humor , Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Australia , Masculino , Femenino , Estudios Transversales , Accidente Cerebrovascular/complicaciones , Anciano , Persona de Mediana Edad , Trastornos del Humor/etiología , Trastornos del Humor/rehabilitación , Trastornos del Humor/terapia , Accesibilidad a los Servicios de Salud , Pacientes Internos , Anciano de 80 o más AñosRESUMEN
Variation in the delivery of evidence-based care affects outcomes for patients with stroke. A range of hospital (organizational), patient, and clinical factors can affect care delivery. Clinical registries are widely used to monitor stroke care and guide quality improvement efforts within hospitals. However, hospital features are rarely collected. We aimed to explore the influence of hospital resources for stroke, in metropolitan and regional/rural hospitals, on the provision of evidence-based patient care and outcomes. The 2017 National Audit organizational survey (Australia) was linked to patient-level data from the Australian Stroke Clinical Registry (2016-2017 admissions). Regression models were used to assess the associations between hospital resources (based on the 2015 Australian National Acute Stroke Services Framework) and patient care (reflective of national guideline recommendations), as well as 90-180-day readmissions and health-related quality of life. Models were adjusted for patient factors, including the severity of stroke. Fifty-two out of 127 hospitals with organizational survey data were merged with 22 832 Australian Stroke Clinical Registry patients with an admission for a first-ever stroke or transient ischaemic attack (median age 75 years, 55% male, and 66% ischaemic). In metropolitan hospitals (n = 42, 20 977 patients, 1701 thrombolyzed, and 2395 readmitted between 90 and 180 days post stroke), a faster median door-to-needle time for thrombolysis was associated with ≥500 annual stroke admissions [-15.9 minutes, 95% confidence interval (CI) -27.2, -4.7], annual thrombolysis >20 patients (-20.2 minutes, 95% CI -32.0, -8.3), and having specialist stroke staff (dedicated medical lead and stroke coordinator; -12.7 minutes, 95% CI -25.0, -0.4). A reduced likelihood of all-cause readmissions between 90 and 180 days was evident in metropolitan hospitals using care pathways for stroke management (odds ratio 0.82, 95% CI 0.67-0.99). In regional/rural hospitals (n = 10, 1855 patients), being discharged with a care plan was also associated with the use of stroke clinical pathways (odds ratio 3.58, 95% CI 1.45-8.82). No specific hospital resources influenced 90-180-day health-related quality of life. Relevant to all international registries, integrating information about hospital resources with clinical registry data provides greater insights into factors that influence evidence-based care.
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Calidad de Vida , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Masculino , Anciano , Femenino , Datos de Salud Recolectados Rutinariamente , Australia , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Hospitales , Sistema de RegistrosRESUMEN
Background: Discharge planning is recommended to optimise the transition from acute care to home for patients admitted with stroke. Despite this guideline recommendation, many patients do not receive a discharge care plan. Also, there is limited evidence on factors influencing the provision of discharge care plan post-stroke. We evaluated patient, clinical and system factors associated with receiving a care plan on discharge from hospital back to the community after stroke. Methods: This was an observational cohort study of patients with acute stroke who were discharged to the community between 2009-2013, using data from the Australian Stroke Clinical Registry linked to hospital administrative data. For this analysis, we used merged dataset containing information on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and receipt of acute care processes. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with receiving a discharge care plan. Results: Among 7812 eligible patients (39 hospitals, median age 73 years, 44.7% female, 56.9% ischaemic stroke), 47% received a care plan at discharge. The odds of receiving a discharge care plan increased over time (odds ratio [OR] 1.39 per year, 95% CI 1.37-1.48), and varied between hospitals. Factors associated with receiving a discharge care plan included greater socioeconomic position (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.02-1.38), diagnosis of ischaemic stroke (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.05-1.33), greater stroke severity (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.01-1.31), or being discharged on antihypertensive medication (OR 3.07, 95% CI 2.69-3.50). In contrast, factors associated with a reduced odds of receiving a discharge care plan included being aged 85+ years (vs < 85 years; OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64-0.96), discharged on a weekend (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.46-0.67), discharged to residential aged care (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.39-0.60), or being treated in a large hospital ( > 300 beds; OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.10-0.92). Conclusions: Implementing practices to target people who are older, discharged to residential aged care, or discharged on a weekend may improve discharge planning and post-discharge care after stroke.
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INTRODUCTION: Despite digital health tools being popular for supporting self-management of chronic diseases, little research has been undertaken on stroke. We developed and pilot tested, using a randomized controlled design, a multicomponent digital health programme, known as Inspiring Virtual Enabled Resources following Vascular Events (iVERVE), to improve self-management after stroke. The 4-week trial incorporated facilitated person-centred goal setting, with those in the intervention group receiving electronic messages aligned to their goals, versus limited administrative messages for the control group. In this paper, we describe the participant experience of the various components involved with the iVERVE trial. METHODS: Mixed method design: satisfaction surveys (control and intervention) and a focus group interview (purposively selected intervention participants). Experiences relating to goal setting and overall trial satisfaction were obtained from intervention and control participants, with feedback on the electronic message component from intervention participants. Inductive thematic analysis was used for interview data and open-text responses, and closed questions were summarized descriptively. Triangulation of data allowed participants' perceptions to be explored in depth. RESULTS: Overall, 27/54 trial participants completed the survey (13 intervention: 52%; 14 control: 48%); and 5/8 invited participants in the intervention group attended the focus group. Goal setting: The approach was considered comprehensive, with the involvement of health professionals in the process helpful in developing realistic, meaningful and person-centred goals. Electronic messages (intervention): Messages were perceived as easy to understand (92%), and the frequency of receipt was considered appropriate (11/13 survey; 4/5 focus group). The content of messages was considered motivational (62%) and assisted participants to achieve their goals (77%). Some participants described the benefits of receiving messages as a 'reminder' to act. Overall trial satisfaction: Messages were acceptable for educating about stroke (77%). Having options for short message services or email to receive messages was considered important. Feedback on the length of the intervention related to specific goals, and benefits of receiving the programme earlier after stroke was expressed. CONCLUSION: The participant experience has indicated acceptance and utility of iVERVE. Feedback from this evaluation is invaluable to inform refinements to future Phase II and III trials, and wider research in the field. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Two consumer representatives sourced from the Stroke Foundation (Australia) actively contributed to the design of the iVERVE programme. In this study, participant experiences directly contributed to the further development of the iVERVE intervention and future trial design.
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Automanejo , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Envío de Mensajes de Texto , Humanos , Proyectos Piloto , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Encuestas y CuestionariosRESUMEN
OBJECTIVES: Coordinators contribute to stroke care quality. Evidence on the scope of practice of coordinator roles for stroke is lacking. We aimed to survey Australian stroke coordinators and describe their responsibilities and characteristics, and compare these based on perceived competency. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Online survey of non-physician coordinators with a clinical leadership position for acute stroke in Australian hospitals. Participants were identified from the Stroke Foundation National Audit, and advertising via national associations/networks. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively; characteristics and responsibilities assessed by Benner's self-perceived competency (novice/advanced beginner/competent, proficient or expert). Inductive thematic analysis was used for open-ended responses. RESULTS: Results from 105/141 coordinators (103 hospitals, 90% female, 90% registered nurses). Two-thirds developed the role/were self-taught, with 36% using the 'stroke coordinator' title. Perceived competency varied; 22% expert, 40% proficient, and 33% competent. A variety of important clinical tasks, along with leadership/management, education and research responsibilities were described. Most frequently reported clinical responsibility was discharge planning (77%), with patient and staff education (85% and 88%), and data collection (94%) common. Compared to those reporting lesser competency, 'experts' had greater involvement in outpatient clinics (50% vs 14%) and leadership/management responsibilities (e.g. local hospital committees 77% vs 46%). 'Knowledge of evidence' and 'empowering others' were important characteristics to 'expert' coordinators. CONCLUSIONS: A contemporary understanding of important responsibilities and characteristics of acute stroke coordinators are provided. Perceived competency affected scope of practice. Structured education, training and role delineation is warranted to improve competency. Career development of stroke coordinators is urgently needed to support optimal role performance.
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Cuidados Críticos , Rol Profesional , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Australia , Cuidados Críticos/organización & administración , Femenino , Hospitales , Humanos , Liderazgo , Masculino , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Encuestas y CuestionariosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Stroke affects all ages. Despite increased incidence in those <65 years, little is known about age-based differences in inpatient rehabilitation management and outcomes. OBJECTIVES: To investigate management and outcomes, comparing younger (<65 years) and older (≥65 years) patients with stroke, who received inpatient rehabilitation. METHODS: Multicentre, cross-sectional study using data from Australian hospitals who participated in the Stroke Foundation national stroke rehabilitation audit (2016-2018). Chi-square tests compared characteristics and care by age. Multivariable regression models were used to compare outcomes by age (e.g. length of stay). Models were adjusted for sex, stroke type and severity factors. RESULTS: 7,165 audited cases from 127 hospitals; 23% <65 years (66% male; 72% ischaemic stroke). When compared to older patients, younger patients were more likely male (66% vs 52%); identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (6% vs 1%); be less disabled on admission; receive psychology (46% vs 34%) input, and community reintegration support, including return to work (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.03, 2.11), sexuality (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.39, 1.84) and self-management (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.23, 1.57) advice. Following adjustment, younger patients had longer lengths of stay (coeff 3.54, 95% CI 2.27, 4.81); were more likely to be independent on discharge (aOR 1.96, 95% CI 1.68, 2.28); be discharged to previous residences (aOR 1.64, 95% CI 1.41, 1.91) and receive community rehabilitation (aOR: 2.27, 95% CI 1.91, 2.70). CONCLUSIONS: Age-related differences exist in characteristics, management and outcomes for inpatients with stroke accessing rehabilitation in Australia.
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Disparidades en Atención de Salud/tendencias , Hospitales de Rehabilitación/tendencias , Evaluación de Procesos y Resultados en Atención de Salud/tendencias , Indicadores de Calidad de la Atención de Salud/tendencias , Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular/tendencias , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Adolescente , Adulto , Factores de Edad , Anciano , Australia/epidemiología , Estudios Transversales , Femenino , Disparidades en Atención de Salud/etnología , Humanos , Pacientes Internos , Masculino , Auditoría Médica , Persona de Mediana Edad , Factores Raciales , Estudios Retrospectivos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/diagnóstico , Accidente Cerebrovascular/etnología , Factores de Tiempo , Resultado del Tratamiento , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Care gaps for stroke lead to preventable disability and deaths. The Victorian State Government implemented a programme of employing clinical Facilitators on a fixed-term basis for up to 3 years (2008-2011) in eight hospitals to improve stroke care. The Facilitators were to establish stroke units where absent, implement evidence-based management protocols and provide staff education within an agreed work plan. AIM: To determine if the Facilitator role was associated with improved stroke care and to describe factors supporting or mitigating enhancements to care. METHODS: A mixed methods design was employed with historical control using patient-level audit data (pre-Facilitator: n = 600; post-Facilitator: n = 387) and qualitative data from independently conducted semistructured interviews with hospital staff, including clinicians, executives and facilitators (n = 10 focus groups; 75 respondents). RESULTS: Stroke units, clinical pathways and outpatient clinics for managing transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) were established. Compared with the pre-Facilitator period, significant increases in patient access to stroke unit care (53% vs 86%, P < 0.001) and intravenous thrombolysis (2% vs 9%, P < 0.001) were achieved. Hospital staff reported that the Facilitator was integral to system improvements by fostering communication, encouraging team motivation and cohesiveness and increasing interest in stroke care. Ongoing barriers included limited resources to operate TIA clinics effectively, staff turnover requiring ongoing education, inconsistency in compliance with protocols and, in some hospitals, the need for formalised medical leadership. CONCLUSION: Fixed-term employment of Facilitators was effective in positively influencing stroke care in hospitals through a range of change management strategies where stroke-specific expertise had been previously limited.
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Hospitales/normas , Auditoría Médica/normas , Grupo de Atención al Paciente/normas , Atención al Paciente/normas , Accidente Cerebrovascular/epidemiología , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Australia/epidemiología , Femenino , Grupos Focales/métodos , Grupos Focales/normas , Personal de Salud/normas , Humanos , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/diagnóstico por imagen , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/epidemiología , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/terapia , Masculino , Auditoría Médica/métodos , Atención al Paciente/métodos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/diagnóstico por imagen , Terapia Trombolítica/métodos , Terapia Trombolítica/normasRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Public awareness of stroke risks and warning signs remains poor. The National Stroke Foundation (NSF) in Australia has been undertaking a StrokeSafe Ambassador Education program to raise awareness of stroke. The format includes presentations by volunteers trained to be 'ambassadors' to spread standard information about stroke to the public. Our aim was to determine the change in knowledge of participants who attended presentations. METHODS: Participants completed questionnaires before immediately after presentations, and at 3months following the presentation. Information was collected on knowledge of risk factors and signs of stroke. McNemar's test was used to compare paired-responses over time. A p value of <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Between March and April 2014, 591 participants attended 185 presentations and 591 (100%) completed them before and immediately after presentation questionnaires: 68% were female and 75% were aged 65years or more. 258 consented for further follow-up with 192 completing follow-up. Comparing immediately after with before presentation showed significantly improved knowledge for all 10 stroke risk factors and all signs of stroke. Significantly improved knowledge for 7/10 risk factors and 1/3 signs of stroke was found when comparing follow-up and immediately after presentation results. Knowledge of 5/10 risk factors and 2/3 signs of stroke improved when comparing follow-up and before presentation. CONCLUSION: This study describes a novel approach to support the use of trained volunteers to provide a community-based, standardised education program for stroke. This program shows that community presentations can improve immediate and short-term knowledge of signs and risk factors for stroke.
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Educación del Paciente como Asunto/métodos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/prevención & control , Anciano , Australia , Servicios de Salud Comunitaria , Femenino , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Factores de Riesgo , Accidente Cerebrovascular/psicología , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , VoluntariosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Since 2007, the Australian Know your numbers (KYN) program has been used in community settings to raise awareness about blood pressure and stroke. In 2011, the program was modified to include assessment for type 2 diabetes risk. However, it is unclear which approach for assessing diabetes risk in pharmacies is best. We compared two methods: random (non-fasting) blood glucose testing (RBGT); and the Australian type 2 diabetes risk assessment tool (AUSDRISK); according to 1) identification of 'high risk' participants including head-to-head sensitivity and specificity; 2) number of referrals to doctors; and 3) feasibility of implementation. METHODS: 117 Queensland pharmacies voluntarily participated and were randomly allocated to RBGT and AUSDRISK or AUSDRISK only. Although discouraged, pharmacies were able to change allocated group prior to commencement. AUSDRISK is a validated self-administered questionnaire used to calculate a score that determines the 5-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes. AUSDRISK (score 12+) or RBGT (≥5.6 mmol/I) indicates a high potential risk of diabetes. Median linear regression was used to compare the two measures. Staff from 68 pharmacies also participated in a semi-structured interview during a site visit to provide feedback. RESULTS: Data were submitted for 5,483 KYN participants (60% female, 66% aged >55 years, 10% history of diabetes). Approximately half of the participants without existing diabetes were identified as 'high risk' based on either RBGT or AUSDRISK score. Among participants who undertook both measures, 32% recorded a high RBGT and high AUSDRISK. There was a significant association between RBGT and AUSDRISK scores. For every one point increase in AUSDRISK score there was a half point increase in RBGT levels (coefficient 0.55, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.83). Pharmacy staff reported that AUSDRISK was a simple, low cost and efficient method of assessing diabetes risk compared with RBGT, e.g. since management of sharps is not an issue. CONCLUSIONS: In a large, community-based sample of Australians about half of the participants without diabetes were at 'high risk 'of developing diabetes based on either AUSDRISK or RBGT results. AUSDRISK was considered to be an acceptable method for assessing the risk of diabetes using opportunistic health checks in community pharmacies.
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Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/diagnóstico , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Australia , Glucemia , Determinación de la Presión Sanguínea , Niño , Preescolar , Servicios Comunitarios de Farmacia , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/sangre , Femenino , Humanos , Lactante , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Queensland , Derivación y Consulta , Factores de Riesgo , Encuestas y CuestionariosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: People with communication differences are known to have poorer hospital outcomes than their peers. However, the combined impact of aphasia and cultural/linguistic differences on care and outcomes after stroke remains unknown. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association between cultural/linguistic differences, defined as those requiring an interpreter, and the provision of acute evidence-based stroke care and in-hospital outcomes for people with aphasia. METHODS: Cross-sectional, observational data collected in the Stroke Foundation National Audit of Acute Services (2017, 2019, 2021) were used. Multivariable regression models compared evidence-based care and in-hospital outcomes (e.g., length of stay) by interpreter status. Models were adjusted for sex, hospital location, stroke type and severity, with clustering by hospital. RESULTS: Among 3122 people with aphasia (median age 78, 49% female) from 126 hospitals, 193 (6%) required an interpreter (median age 78, 55% female). Compared to people with aphasia not requiring an interpreter, those requiring an interpreter had similar care access but less often had their mood assessed (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.32, 0.76), were more likely to have physiotherapy assessments (96% vs 90% p = 0.011) and carer training (OR 4.83, 95% CI 1.70, 13.70), had a 2 day longer median length of stay (8 days vs 6 days, p = 0.003), and were less likely to be independent on discharge (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.33, 0.89). CONCLUSIONS: Some differences exist in the management and outcomes for people with post-stroke aphasia who require an interpreter. Further research to explore their needs and the practical issues underpinning their clinical care pathways is required.
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Afasia , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Afasia/etiología , Afasia/rehabilitación , Anciano , Estudios Transversales , Accidente Cerebrovascular/complicaciones , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular , Persona de Mediana Edad , Barreras de Comunicación , Traducción , Tiempo de Internación/estadística & datos numéricos , Evaluación de Resultado en la Atención de SaludRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Stroke affects long-term physical and cognitive function; many survivors report unmet health needs, such as pain or depression. A hospital-led follow-up service designed to address ongoing health problems may avoid unplanned readmissions and improve quality of life. METHODS: This paper outlines the protocol for a registry-based, randomised controlled trial with allocation concealment of participants and outcome assessors. Based on an intention-to-treat analysis, we will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, potential effectiveness and cost implications of a new tailored, codesigned, hospital-led follow-up service for people within 6-12 months of stroke. Participants (n = 100) from the Australian Stroke Clinical Registry who report extreme health problems on the EuroQol EQ-5D-3L survey between 90 and 180 days after stroke will be randomly assigned (1:1) to intervention (follow-up service) or control (usual care) groups. All participants will be independently assessed at baseline and 12-14-week post-randomisation. Primary outcomes for feasibility are the proportion of participants completing the trial and for intervention participants the proportion that received follow-up services. Acceptability is satisfaction of clinicians and participants involved in the intervention. Secondary outcomes include effectiveness: change in extreme health problems (EQ-5D-3L), unmet needs (Longer-term Unmet Needs questionnaire), unplanned presentations and hospital readmission, functional independence (modified Rankin Scale) and cost implications estimated from self-reported health service utilisation and productivity (e.g. workforce participation). To inform future research or implementation, the design contains a process evaluation including clinical protocol fidelity and an economic evaluation. DISCUSSION: The results of this study will provide improved knowledge of service design and implementation barriers and facilitators and associated costs and resource implications to inform a future fully powered effectiveness trial of the intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ACTRN12622001015730pr. TRIAL SPONSOR: Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, 245 Burgundy Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, PH: +61 3 9035 7032.
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BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The quality of hospital care for stroke varies, particularly in rural areas. In 2007, funding to improve stroke care became available as part of the Rural Stroke Project (RSP) in New South Wales (Australia). The RSP included the employment of clinical coordinators to establish stroke units or pathways and protocols, and more clinical staff. We aimed to describe the effectiveness of RSP in improving stroke care and patient outcomes. METHODS: A historical control cohort design was used. Clinical practice and outcomes at 8 hospitals were compared using 2 medical record reviews of 100 consecutive ischemic or intracerebral hemorrhage patients ≥12 months before RSP and 3 to 6 months after RSP was implemented. Descriptive statistics and multivariable analyses of patient outcomes are presented. SAMPLE: pre-RSP n=750; mean age 74 (SD, 13) years; women 50% and post-RSP n=730; mean age 74 (SD, 13) years; women 46%. Many improvements in stroke care were found after RSP: access to stroke units (pre 0%; post 58%, P<0.001); use of aspirin within 24 hours of ischemic stroke (pre 59%; post 71%, P<0.001); use of care plans (pre 15%; post 63%, P<0.001); and allied health assessments within 48 hours (pre 65%; post 82% P<0.001). After implementation of the RSP, patients directly admitted to an RSP hospital were 89% more likely to be discharged home (adjusted odds ratio, 1.89; 95% confidence interval, 1.34-2.66). CONCLUSIONS: Investment in clinical coordinators who implemented organizational change, together with increased clinician resources, effectively improved stroke care in rural hospitals, resulting in more patients being discharged home.
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Auditoría Clínica , Atención a la Salud , Eficiencia Organizacional , Hospitales Especializados , Servicios de Salud Rural , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Atención a la Salud/organización & administración , Atención a la Salud/normas , Atención a la Salud/tendencias , Eficiencia Organizacional/normas , Eficiencia Organizacional/tendencias , Guías como Asunto , Hospitales Especializados/organización & administración , Hospitales Especializados/normas , Hospitales Especializados/tendencias , Humanos , Nueva Gales del Sur , Estudios Retrospectivos , Servicios de Salud Rural/organización & administración , Servicios de Salud Rural/normas , Servicios de Salud Rural/tendenciasRESUMEN
RATIONALE: Theoretically, most strokes could be prevented through the management of modifiable risk factors. The Stroke Riskometer™ mobile phone application (hereon "The App") uses an individual's data to provide personalized information and advice to reduce their risk of stroke. AIMS: To determine the effect of The App on a combined cardiovascular risk score (Life's Simple 7®, LS7) of modifiable risk factors at 6 months post-randomization. METHODS AND DESIGN: PERKS-International is a Phase III, multicentre, prospective, pragmatic, open-label, single-blinded endpoint, two-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT). Inclusion criteria are as follows: age ⩾ 35 and ⩽75 years; ⩾2 LS7 risk factors; smartphone ownership; no history of stroke/myocardial infarction/cognitive impairment/terminal illness. The intervention group (IG) will be provided with The App, and the usual care group (UCG) is provided with generic online information about risk factors, but not be informed about The App. Face-to-face assessments will be conducted at baseline and 6 months, and online at 3 and 12 months. The RCT includes a process and economic evaluation. STUDY OUTCOMES AND SAMPLE SIZE: The primary outcome is a difference in the mean change in LS7 (seven individual items: blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, body mass index (BMI), smoking, physical activity, and diet) from baseline to 6 months post-randomization with intention-to-treat analysis. Secondary outcomes include: change in individual LS7 items, quality of life; stroke awareness, adverse events; health service use; and costs. Based on pilot data, 790 participants (395 IG, 395 UCG) will be required to provide 80% power (two-sided α = 0.05) to detect a mean difference in the LS7 of ⩾0.40 (SD 1.61) in IG compared to 0.01 (SD 1.44) in the UCG at 6 months post-randomization. DISCUSSION: Stroke is largely preventable. This study will provide evidence of the effectiveness of a mobile app to reduce stroke risk. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ACTRN12621000211864.
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Infarto del Miocardio , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Anciano , Accidente Cerebrovascular/epidemiología , Accidente Cerebrovascular/prevención & control , Factores de Riesgo , Dieta , Calidad de Vida , Ensayos Clínicos Controlados Aleatorios como Asunto , Estudios Multicéntricos como Asunto , Ensayos Clínicos Fase III como AsuntoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: National organisational surveys and clinical audits to monitor and guide improvements to the delivery of evidence-based acute stroke care have been undertaken in Australia since 1999. This study aimed to determine the association between repeated national audit cycles on stroke service provision and care delivery from 1999 to 2019. METHODS: Cross-sectional study using data from organisational surveys (1999, 2004, 2007-2019) and clinical data from the biennial National Stroke Acute Audit (2007-2019). Age-, sex-, and stroke severity-adjusted proportions were reported for adherence to guideline-recommended care processes. Multivariable, logistic regression models were performed to determine the association between repeated audit cycles and service provision (organisational) and care delivery (clinical). RESULTS: Overall, 197 hospitals provided organisational survey data (1999-2019), with 24,996 clinical cases from 136 hospitals (around 40 cases per audit) (2007-2019). We found significant improvements in service organisation between 1999 and 2019 for access to stroke units (1999: 42%, 2019: 81%), thrombolysis services (1999: 6%, 2019: 85%), and rapid assessment/management for patients with transient ischaemic attack (1999: 11%, 2019: 61%). Analyses of patient-level audits for 2007 to 2019 found the odds of receiving care processes per audit cycle to have significantly increased for thrombolysis (2007: 3%, 2019: 11%; OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.13, 1.17), stroke unit access (2007: 52%, 2019: 69%; OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.14, 1.17), risk factor advice (2007: 40%, 2019: 63%; OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.09, 1.12), and carer training (2007: 24%, 2019: 51%; OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.10, 1.15). CONCLUSIONS: Between 1999 and 2019, the quality of acute stroke care in Australia has improved in line with best practice evidence. Standardised monitoring of stroke care can inform targeted efforts to reduce identified gaps in best practice, and illustrate the evolution of the health system for stroke.
Asunto(s)
Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Estudios Transversales , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Australia , Hospitales , Modelos LogísticosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Accurate coded diagnostic data are important for epidemiological research of stroke. OBJECTIVE: To develop, implement and evaluate an online education program for improving clinical coding of stroke. METHOD: The Australia and New Zealand Stroke Coding Working Group co-developed an education program comprising eight modules: rationale for coding of stroke; understanding stroke; management of stroke; national coding standards; coding trees; good clinical documentation; coding practices; and scenarios. Clinical coders and health information managers participated in the 90-minute education program. Pre- and post-education surveys were administered to assess knowledge of stroke and coding, and to obtain feedback. Descriptive analyses were used for quantitative data, inductive thematic analysis for open-text responses, with all results triangulated. RESULTS: Of 615 participants, 404 (66%) completed both pre- and post-education assessments. Respondents had improved knowledge for 9/12 questions (p < 0.05), including knowledge of applicable coding standards, coding of intracerebral haemorrhage and the actions to take when coding stroke (all p < 0.001). Majority of respondents agreed that information was pitched at an appropriate level; education materials were well organised; presenters had adequate knowledge; and that they would recommend the session to colleagues. In qualitative evaluations, the education program was beneficial for newly trained clinical coders, or as a knowledge refresher, and respondents valued clinical information from a stroke neurologist. CONCLUSION: Our education program was associated with increased knowledge for clinical coding of stroke. To continue to address the quality of coded stroke data through improved stroke documentation, the next stage will be to adapt the educational program for clinicians.
RESUMEN
RATIONALE: Mobile stroke units (MSUs) are increasingly being implemented to provide acute stroke care in the prehospital environment, but a comprehensive implementation evaluation has not been undertaken. AIM: To identify successes and challenges in the pre- and initial operations of the first Australian MSU service from an interdisciplinary perspective. METHODS: Process evaluation of the Melbourne MSU with a mixed-methods design. Purposive sampling targeted key stakeholder groups. Online surveys (administered June-September 2019) and semistructured interviews (October-November 2019) explored experiences. Directed content analysis (raters' agreement 85%) and thematic analysis results are presented using the Interactive Sociotechnical Analysis framework. RESULTS: Participants representing executive/program operations, MSU clinicians and hospital-based clinicians completed 135 surveys and 38 interviews. Results converged, with major themes addressing successes and challenges: stakeholders, vehicle, knowledge, training/education, communication, work processes and working relationships. CONCLUSIONS: Successes and challenges of establishing a new MSU service extend beyond technical, to include operational and social aspects across prehospital and hospital environments.