The YOU CALL-WE CALL randomized clinical trial: Impact of a multimodal support intervention after a mild stroke.

Background: Comparison of a multimodal intervention WE CALL (study initiated phone support/information provision) versus a passive intervention YOU CALL (participant can contact a resource person) in individuals with first mild stroke.

Methods And Results: This study is a single-blinded randomized clinical trial. Primary outcome includes unplanned use of health services (participant diaries) for adverse events and quality of life (Euroquol-5D, Quality of Life Index).

Study protocol of the YOU CALL--WE CALL TRIAL: impact of a multimodal support intervention after a "mild" stroke.

Background: More than 60% of new strokes each year are "mild" in severity and this proportion is expected to rise in the years to come. Within our current health care system those with "mild" stroke are typically discharged home within days, without further referral to health or rehabilitation services other than advice to see their family physician. Those with mild stroke often have limited access to support from health professionals with stroke-specific knowledge who would typically provide critical information on topics such as secondary stroke prevention, community reintegration, medication counselling and problem solving with regard to specific concerns that arise.

Impact of a stroke unit on length of hospital stay and in-hospital case fatality.

Background And Purpose: Randomized trials have demonstrated reduced morbidity and mortality with stroke unit care; however, the effect on length of stay, and hence the economic benefit, is less well-defined. In 2001, a multidisciplinary stroke unit was opened at our institution. We observed whether a stroke unit reduces length of stay and in-hospital case fatality when compared to admission to a general neurology/medical ward.

The National Stroke Nursing Council: a nursing call for action.

Nursing is fundamental to the care of stroke patients. From the acute setting all the way to rehabilitation and community reintegration, nursing is there. Having well-educated and highly skilled nurses to monitor and care for stroke patients is crucial.

Advancing nursing practice: the role of the nurse practitioner in an acute stroke program.

Both patient and staff satisfaction with the SNP role has been high as it relates to quality of care delivery and accessibility of care and service. In particular, patients express satisfaction with the continuity of care experienced throughout the stroke care continuum, from acute in-hospital care to postdischarge follow-up. Improvements have been realized in systems and processes of care with the implementation of the SNP role.