Abstract T P258: Improving Nursing Practice Through Telestroke Partnerships

Abstract

Background: Emergency department (ED) nurses play a vital role in initiating the appropriate care of stroke patients. Nurses must demonstrate a proficient skill level in order to partner with the health care team to ensure the delivery of quality stroke care. Education is a key component to attaining and maintaining proficiency and comfort in these skills. Telestroke partnerships provide a unique opportunity to improve the knowledge and skill level of nurses in community hospital emergency departments. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to measure the impact on nursing knowledge and practice through the establishment of a telestroke partnership between a Comprehensive Stroke Center and community partner hospitals. Methods: After a literature review, a questionnaire was developed and evaluated by the nursing research council. The proposed research was approved by our Institutional Review Board (IRB). Prior to any education related to stroke care and telestroke technology, the ED nurses in our partner hospitals completed the questionnaire measuring their knowledge and comfort level in caring for acute stroke patients. Education related to stroke identification, assessment, tPA administration, and advanced interventions was provided via small group lecture by the telestroke coordinator. A follow up questionnaire was completed at 3 month post education and implementation. Results: As a result of the education and support provided through the telestroke partnership, the community hospital ED nurses’ scores demonstrated an increased level of comfort and knowledge related to the care of an acute stroke patient. Conclusions: Stroke care and patient outcomes are directly impacted by the level of nursing knowledge and practice at the bedside. Telestroke partnerships between comprehensive centers and community hospitals strengthen the nursing practice levels in the community hospital setting.