Abstract TP33: Stroke Navigators: Closing Patient Educational Gaps

Abstract

Background: A critical component in preventing Cerebral Vascular Accidents (CVA) and Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) is knowledge of risk factors and, signs and symptoms of a stroke, and follow-up care with a neurologist and primary care provider. To prevent readmission to the hospital for a second CVA, a large hospital system outside the District of Columbia has implemented a Nurse-led Stroke Education program. Purpose: Introduction of a full-time Stroke Navigator will improve patient education for Ischemic and TIA patients, through a nurse-led Stroke Education program. Methods: Phase 1: The Stroke Navigator in conjunction with the bedside RN will provide personalized stroke education to patients who suffer from a CVA or TIA. Phase II: The Stroke Navigator will conduct a follow-up phone call of patients discharged with a diagnosis of stroke or TIA within seven days. The phone call will assess patient’s knowledge of their risk factors, the symptoms and symptoms associated with a stroke, medication compliance, and follow-up medical appointment compliance with a Primary Care Provider (PCP) and Neurologist. Results: Data was reviewed from January –May 2021(n=87) prior to the implementation of the stroke navigator role, and from June –July 2021(n=57) after integration of the role. Patients’ follow-up compliance with their PCP increased from 34% to 68%. Follow-up with a neurologist increased from 8% to 44%. Medication Compliance decreased from 99% to 89%. Patients’ knowledge of signs and symptoms of stroke increased from 8% to 18%. Patients’ knowledge of their personal risk factors for stroke decreased from 45% to 35%. Conclusion: Data surrounding implementation of a full time Stroke Navigator has made a positive impact on patient’s post-stroke knowledge and care surrounding follow-up with providers and knowledge of signs/symptoms of stroke. The Stroke Coordinator and Stroke Navigator will continue to measure quality outcomes over time to determine if the stroke education program is continuing to positively impact post-discharge patient care.