The early impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mobile stroke unit care delivery: A worldwide survey

Abstract

ObjectiveTo report COVID −19 pandemic impact on mobile stroke units (MSUs) a world-wide survey of MSU programs. MethodsContact information of MSU program was obtained through the Pre-hospital Stroke Treatment Organization. Anonymous electronic questionnaire was developed and sent through the email to one representative of each program on May 15, 2020. ResultsOf 26 programs queried, 20 responded and completed survey based on the data or personal impression. Eighteen programs were in the regions with pandemic lockdown. Six either suspended or reduced MSU availability at some point. The reasons given for change in availability were as follows: decreased personnel availability (5 programs), risk of exposure (5 programs), and financial concerns (1 program). Staff availability was a concern among 8 programs. MSU activations were reported to be unchanged by 10 programs, but 9 programs experienced decline in activation, 1 program had more activations. Sixteen programs reported change in MSU protocol including introduction of screening questionnaire, PPE, reducing patient contact, and cleaning protocols. Nine reported that the crew was under greater stress. Only 2 respondents felt that the pandemic delayed stroke care on MSU and the remainder did not. ConclusionOverall Stroke care delivery had no major disruptions despite COVID 19 pandemic posed challenges to MSU Operations.