Community-based care of stroke patients in a rural african setting
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2009
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South African Medical Journal
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
Background: In order to develop a community based-model of stroke care we assessed discharge planning of stroke patients, available resources, and continuity of care between hospital and community in a remote rural setting in South Africa. We sought to determine outcomes, family participation and support needs, as well as implementation of secondary prevention strategies.
Methods: Thirty consecutive stroke patients from the local hospital were assessed clinically (including Barthel Index and modified Rankin scores) at time of discharge. Patients were re-assessed three months after discharge in their homes by a trained field worker using a structured questionnaire.
Results: Two thirds of all families received no stroke education before discharge. At discharge 27 (90%) were either bed or chair-bound. All the patients were discharged into family care as there was no stroke rehabilitation facility available to the community. Of 30 patients recruited, 20 (66.7%) were alive at 3 months, 9 (30%) were deceased, and 1 was lost to follow-up. At 3 months, 55% of survivors were independently mobile as compared with 10% at discharge. A total of 13 (65%) patients in our cohort were visited by home-based carers. Only 45% reported taking aspirin at 3 months. Conclusions: The 3 month mortality rate was high. Most survivors improved functionally but were left with significant disability. Measures to improve family education and the level of home-based care can be introduced in a model of stroke care attempting to reduce carer strain and improve functional disability in rural stroke patients.
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Reference:
Wasserman, S., de Villiers, L., & Bryer, A. (2009). Community-based care of stroke patients in a rural African setting. South African Medical Journal, 99(8), 579.