Experiences from a cluster-randomized trial (ParaNASPP) exploring triage and diagnostic accuracy in paramedic-suspected stroke: a qualitative interview study.

Background And Purpose: Timely prehospital stroke recognition was explored in the Paramedic Norwegian Acute Stroke Prehospital Project (ParaNASPP) by implementation of stroke education for paramedics and use of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) through a mobile application. The study tested triage and facilitated communication between paramedics and stroke physicians. To complement the quantitative results of the clinical trial, a qualitative approach was used to identify factors that influence triage decisions and diagnostic accuracy in prehospital stroke recognition experienced by paramedics and stroke physicians.

Gamification of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) for simulation training-a feasibility study.

Background: Training prehospital personnel in identifying patients with acute stroke is key to providing rapid treatment. This study aimed to investigate whether game-based digital simulation training is a feasible alternative to standard in-person simulation training.

Methods: Second-year paramedic bachelor students at Oslo Metropolitan University in Norway were invited to participate in a study to compare game-based digital simulation (intervention) to standard in-person training (control).

Paramedic Norwegian Acute Stroke Prehospital Project (ParaNASPP) study protocol: a stepped wedge randomised trial of stroke screening using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale in the ambulance.

Background: Less than 50% of stroke patients in Norway reach hospital within 4 h of symptom onset. Early prehospital identification of stroke and triage to the right level of care may result in more patients receiving acute treatment. Quality of communication between paramedics and the stroke centre directly affects prehospital on-scene time, emphasising this as a key factor to reduce prehospital delay.

A study of blood transfusion services at a district hospital in Malawi.

Background And Objectives: Severe anaemia is an important cause of mortality in developing countries. However, few studies have explored the use of and possibilities for blood transfusion services. The aims of this study are to explore the use of blood transfusion services at a hospital in sub-Saharan Africa and to assess the quality of the transfusion services according to WHO guidelines.