Early vs. Late Anticoagulation in Acute Ischemic Stroke for Non-Atrial Fibrillation Indications.

Background/objective: In persons whose sole indication for anticoagulation is atrial fibrillation (AF), early therapeutic anticoagulation after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) may decrease ischemic risk without increasing hemorrhagic risk. However, literature to guide anticoagulation timing in patients with a non-AF indication remains extremely limited.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study compared outcomes of early (within ≤4 days of AIS) versus late anticoagulation (5-14 days) for persons with AIS and non-AF indications for anticoagulation.

A Review of Thromboelastography for Nurses.

Background: Thromboelastography is a viscoelastic test with multiple potential advantages over conventional coagulation tests in various disease states. Thromboelastography rapidly provides qualitative and quantitative information related to a patient's coagulation status.

Objective: To describe recent studies of the use of thromboelastography in various clinical states and how thromboelastography is used in coagulation management.

Adherence to Established Blood Pressure Targets and Associated Complications in Patients Presenting with Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

Background: Conflicting evidence exists surrounding systolic blood pressure (SBP) control in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The 2022 American Heart Association and American Stroke Association guidelines recommend targeting a SBP of 140 mm Hg while maintaining the range of 130-150 mm Hg. The current practice at our health system is to titrate antihypertensives to a SBP goal of < 160 mm Hg, which aligns with previous recommendations.