351 Snapshot of Transient Ischaemic Attack inpatient management at a model three Irish hospital

Abstract

Abstract Background Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) is a common presentation to hospitals and portends a high risk for eventual stroke. The EXPRESS study suggested the benefit of urgent outpatient assessment of TIA, which was associated with a 80% risk reduction of early recurrent stroke when compared to usual care. The HSE model of care for stroke endorses that rapid access TIA clinics could reduce costs of hospital admissions. Average length of admission for TIA is 6.7 days in Ireland. This study aimed to examine TIA admission lengths and identify possible targets for improvement in a model three Irish hospital. Methods All patients with a HIPE coded diagnosis of ‘Transient Ischaemic Attack’ from 17/12/21 to 20/8/22 were included. All coded diagnoses of ‘Transient Ischaemic Attack’ had a normal MRI brain DWI—abnormal MRI DWI imaging is coded as stroke. Therefore the true number of TIAs was not captured. Hospital electronic databases were used to identify baseline demographics, date of inpatient investigation request and date of inpatient investigation completion. Results 64 cases were identified. The median age was 79 years (interquartile range 67 to 86 years). 45% were female. 52% were admitted under a stroke/geriatric team. Median length of admission was 4 days (IQR 3 to 7 days). CT was requested on median day 0. MRI, carotid doppler US and echocardiogram were requested on a median day 1. 94% underwent CT brain imaging on median day 1. 34 (53%) underwent MRI brain DWI, on median day 3. 13 (20%) underwent carotid doppler US, on median day 3. 20 (31%) underwent echocardiogram, on median day 4. Conclusion Length of hospital stay has improved compared to prior studies. Limited access to investigations may prolong hospital stay. Streamlining services with development of urgent outpatient TIA clinics, could improve outcomes, save clinician time, free up hospital beds and save hospital funding.