Stroke survival rate could increase with one extra nurse per ten
- Oct 28, 2016
- EmmaArnold
One extra nurse trained in dealing with stroke patients for every 10 beds can substantially increase survival, researchers found.
The study from universities of Aberdeen and East Anglia found just one extra stroke nurse would see a 28% reduction in death rates after 30 days.
Eight hospitals were audited by the team who expected more obvious aspects of healthcare to have a greater impact on survival such as the number of rehab beds on the unit rather than the addition of one nurse.
The research was published the day before World Stroke Daywhich takes place tomorrow on 29th October.
Lesley Herbertson, senior clinical negligence solicitor at PotterReesDolan, said:
At PotterReesDolan we support raising awareness about the symptoms and impact of a stroke and note that World Stroke Day is designed to do that.
Individuals or those around them should be aware of symptoms which suggest that they are suffering a stroke (such as face drooping, arm weakness, problems with speech).
Time is then of the essence. That's not only relevant as far as the patient is concerned but also the treating staff at the hospital. Ideally, the patient should be taken to a regional specialist centre where stroke treatment should be available around the clock.
Organisations around Manchester have been taking part in fundraising events in conjunction with World Stroke Day to raise awareness.