The impact of depression on stroke recovery in the U.S.

Globally, stroke is an important cause of physical, cognitive and emotional disability. The success of rehabilitation efforts for stroke patients is often measured in terms of physical functioning. However, because the adaptation process also involves psychological and social factors, and nursing goal is to holistically meet patient's health care needs, it is important to address emotional and social variables that impact the healing process. Therefore, the purpose of this prospective longitudinal study was to determine the impact of depression on functional ability in adults (n = 50) who have had a stroke in the U.S. The study was conducted at two large urban medical centers and one community hospital in the Midwest of the U.S. Depression screening and functional status evaluations were conducted within 10 days (Time 1) and three months (Time 2) post-stroke. In the total sample 46% (n = 23) described fewer depressive symptoms at Time 2; while 44% (n = 22) indicated more depressive symptoms, and 10% (n = 5) showed no difference between Time 1 and 2. In the total sample, 27 improved in functional status between Time 1 and Time 2, while 5 lost function at Time 2. The impact of stroke on depression in the U.S. as well as nursing implications globally are discussed.