High satisfaction with an individualised stroke care programme after hospitalisation of patients with a TIA or minor stroke: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Many hospitalised patients with a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke develop subtle cognitive disorders and emotional problems a few weeks after discharge, and are dissatisfied with the care they have received, even with specialised stroke care programmes. Therefore, an individualised stroke care programme was developed to match the therapy with the personal care needs. In this pilot study we evaluated the feasibility of the rehabilitation programme, the satisfaction of stroke patients with this programme, and the factors associated with satisfaction.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who were hospitalised with a TIA or minor stroke, with no apparent residual deficits, were eligible. Occupational and neuropsychological screening was applied 4-6 weeks after discharge, and therapy was provided when necessary. After 6 months, satisfaction with care (Satisfaction-With-Stroke-Care-19), was assessed as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were quality of life (QoL), disability, handicap, anxiety and depression.

RESULTS

42 patients with a TIA or minor stroke participated in the programme and the follow-up. Of all the participants, 71% were satisfied with the care they have received after discharge. Male patients were more satisfied than female patients. Dissatisfied patients were less able to perform the activities of daily living, had a lower QoL and more depressive symptoms. After regression analysis, only the Barthel Index was independently associated with satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

In this pilot study, our individualised stroke care programme seems to have improved patient satisfaction. Ability to perform daily activities is associated with satisfaction. A randomised controlled trial is needed to confirm the effectiveness of this rehabilitation programme.