Abstract WP433: Factor Associated With Significant Delay in Acute Stroke Triage Process

Abstract

Background: Benefit of revascularization in acute ischemic stroke declines over time. Any delay in acute stroke care contributes to poor treatment outcome. We aimed to identify factors associated with the delay in the process of acute stroke triage. Methods: All patients presented at the emergency room at the Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand under stroke fast track protocol (ASFP) from January 2015 to March 2017 were reviewed. Demographic data, stroke subtypes, time measures, initial NIHSS were recorded. Delay in triage was defined as either door to first physician > 10 minutes or door to activate stroke fast track > 15 minutes. Multivariable logistic regression model were performed to identify independent variables associated with triage delay. Results: A total of 1,000 patients were enrolled under ASFP with a mean age of 63.5+15.3 years and 53.9% were male. Triage delay was found in 11.2%. Factors associated with a delay in stroke triage were inaccurate presenting symptom(s) OR17.69 (95% CI 10.86, 28.82), dizziness and dysphagia as an initial presentation OR 3.26 (95% CI 1.64, 6.48) and OR 8.02 (95% CI 1.31, 49.28) respectively and uncertain chief complaint OR 3.35 (95% CI 1.56, 7.19). Conclusion: Unclear chief complaint, dizziness and vertigo as an initial symptoms and inaccurate presenting symptoms significantly associated with the delay in acute stroke triage in an emergency department. Further research is needed to clarify if strategic questioning could help nurses and ER physicians in reducing this delay.