Health-Related Quality of Life in Ischemic Stroke Patients Receiving Thrombolytic Therapy at the Stroke Unit at Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital

Abstract

This descriptive research aimed to 1) investigate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and 2) identify factors influencing the HRQoL of ischemic stroke patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis at the Acute Stroke Unit of Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. The purposive sample consisted of 61 patients followed up with at one month post-discharge between January and September 2024. Research instruments included a demographic questionnaire, Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scales, disability assessments, and the Stroke Impact Scale (SIS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Multivariable Regressions. The results revealed that the majority of patients reported a moderate overall HRQoL (26.22%). Domain-specific analysis showed that physical function, ADL, mobility, hand function, and social participation were rated at the lowest levels. Conversely, memory and thinking, emotion, and communication were rated at the highest levels. Multivariable regression identified endovascular thrombectomy and stroke severity as significant predictors, accounting for 26.8% of the variance in HRQoL. Conclusion and Recommendations: While stroke survivors maintain high cognitive and emotional health, they face severe physical limitations one month after discharge. To improve long-term outcomes and reduce disability, it is critical to enhance the Stroke Fast Track via a Pre-alert system. Targeting a Door-to-Needle time of under 60 minutes is essential for minimizing neurological deficit and elevating the long-term quality of life for stroke patients.