Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of serious, long-term disability. Few conditions can occur as rapidly and with as devastating consequences as stroke. Data from the American Stroke Association (ASA) indicate that over 700,000 people in the United States suffer a stroke each year. Immediate emergency treatment is critical to surviving a stroke with the least amount of damage to the brain and the ability to function. Every stroke or transient ischemic attack must be treated as a life-threatening emergency. Thus, it is important that all healthcare providers be educated on the early identification of stroke symptoms, emergency care options, and prevention of recurrent stroke.This course, Advanced Stroke Management, will discuss the anatomy and physiology of a stroke. It will outline the cerebral artery anatomy and identify stroke symptoms as they relate to the various artery involvements. Radiological testing, laboratory values, medications, and nursing interventions will be addressed, as they pertain to the treatment of the acute stroke patient. In 2003, The Joint Commission launched its Primary Stroke Center Certification Program. As of January, 2011, there are more than 800 certified primary stroke centers. The designation signifies that the hospitals meet requirements to provide emergency diagnostic and therapeutic services by a multidisciplinary team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to patients with symptoms of acute stroke. Eight hours of annual stroke specific continuing education is REQUIRED for the staffs that comprise the CORE stroke team. Additionally, at least 80% of the Emergency Department staff is required to have knowledge of the stroke pathophysiology, presentation, assessment, diagnosis and treatment including thrombolytic therapy. Finally, Nurses on non-stroke units, where stroke patients are not routinely cared for, and ancillary staff should receive education related to recognition of stroke signs and symptoms and activation of the organization's emergency response processes. This course would be excellent for all healthcare providers, and assist hospitals seeking both initial and renewal of primary stroke center certification.
8. Discuss the anatomy and physiology of the brain and cerebral arteries.
11. Describe emergency interventions for a patient diagnosed with an acute stroke.