Abstract TP392: Life in the F.A.S.T. Lane: Improving Stroke Patient and Family Education by Using F.A.S.T

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Quality educational programs for stroke awareness promote early medical attention which lead to improved recovery and clinical outcomes. The implementation of an evidence-based education program using F.A.S.T. improved community awareness of both the signs and symptoms of stroke along with awareness of individual risk factors. The purpose of this quality enhancement initiative was to determine the efficacy of specific stroke education and the effects on the community for prompt medical treatment of suspected stroke when warning signs and symptoms are identified. Methods: A quality improvement pre-test/post-test design project was conducted to evaluate the implementation and impact of an evidenced-based patient/family centered education program regarding using F.A.S.T. and identifiable risk factors. Questions formulated using the Kirkpatrick Model. GetWell Rounds and Marabella application was used electronically at the beside to gather data. Outcomes were measured using a 10-point Likert scale in 311 patients and their caregivers at a busy level one trauma center over 5 months. As a result, creation of hospital wide education including videos, key discharge components and community outreach was newly implemented. Results: This evidenced-based initiative contributed to a significant increase in patients/families understanding of stroke signs and symptoms and recognition of individual risk factors that were modifiable. The highest level of improvement is comfort level explaining F.A.S.T. In addition, patient and caregiver survivors as well as non-stroke population participation in the community stroke programs have increased. Conclusions: Identifying stroke symptoms and acting rapidly can lower death and disability, but public awareness of stroke warning signs, symptoms and risk factors remains poor. Stroke educational programs are needed to improve community knowledge and behaviors to increase early treatment and potentially decreasing mortality. The community focused level is important to getting the message out and about stroke factors; therefore, developing cultural awareness is crucial.