• To refresh your knowledge of the risk factors for stroke
• To recognise the signs and symptoms of a stroke and the importance of early treatment
• To learn about the various treatment options available for a person who has experienced a stroke
Stroke is a medical emergency, resulting in a significant number of annual deaths in the UK and representing a major cause of disability. Early recognition of the signs and symptoms of stroke is vital to ensure effective and potentially lifesaving treatment. It is important that nurses are able to recognise the risk factors for stroke, as well as being aware of the potential treatment modalities. This article details the signs and symptoms, and risk factors for stroke, as well as outlining the treatment options. The author also explains the important role of nurses in stroke prevention and the long-term care of people who have experienced a stroke and their family members.
Nursing Standard. 37, 1, 77-82. doi: 10.7748/ns.2021.e11596
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software
Correspondence Conflict of interestNone declared
Chauhdry H (2021) Understanding the importance of recognising, treating and preventing stroke. Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2021.e11596
Published online: 11 October 2021
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