International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access
ISSN: 2329-9096
+44 1300 500008
ISSN: 2329-9096
+44 1300 500008
Shahla Aldhokair
Saudi Arabia
Research Article
Impact of Acute Stroke Unit on Patient Outcomes in Saudi Arabia
Author(s): Ali M Al Khathaami, Shahla Aldhokair, Maisoun Tarawneh, Ismail Khatri and Nasser AlotaibiAli M Al Khathaami, Shahla Aldhokair, Maisoun Tarawneh, Ismail Khatri and Nasser Alotaibi
Background: Evidence from developed countries indicates that acute stroke units (ASUs) improve stroke outcomes. Data from developing countries on efficacy of ASUs are limited.
Aims: To determine whether establishing an ASU impacts stroke outcomes in the Saudi health care system.
Methods: This improvement project was conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from January 2012 to December 2013. An ASU was established to provide improved care for stroke patients. We compared death, unfavourable outcomes, independence at discharge, and NIHSS at discharge between patients treated by traditional practice versus those treated in an ASU using multiple regression analysis.
Results: Of 861 patients admitted with initial diagnoses of acute stroke, 525 were treated in an ASU. Patient.. View More»