Application of Transition Theory in Nursing of Ischemic Stroke Patients After Craniectomy: A Case Study
Main Article Content
Abstract
Abstract: Stroke, resulting from cerebral artery stenosis or occlusion, disrupts blood flow to the brain, leading to neuronal damage, functional deficits (hemiparesis/plegia), and potential death. Prompt acute-phase medical and nursing care is vital in reducing the severity and disability associated with stroke. This study aimed to explore the application of transition theory in the nursing management of acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing decompressive craniectomy. Data collection, problem identification, nursing diagnosis formulation, and care planning were conducted across the pre-operative, post-operative, and rehabilitation phases. Case Study of a 70-year-old Thai male presented with a 4-hour history of left-sided limb weakness and was diagnosed with ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation. He was transferred from a community hospital to a tertiary care center. Twenty-four hours post-admission, the patient exhibited atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and worsening left-sided limb weakness (Grade 0 muscle strength). He also presented with signs of increased intracranial pressure (IICP). A brain CT scan revealed a large right middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction with evidence of cerebral edema. The patient subsequently underwent decompressive craniectomy. Nurses identified problems and provided care across the pre-operative, post-operative, and rehabilitation phases. Discharge planning and continuous care were implemented to facilitate the patient's transition through the critical and recovery periods, enabling the patient and family to cope with the transition from hospital to home effectively. Ultimately, the patient was successfully discharged home. In summary, this case study demonstrates a successful transition through the acute, sub-acute, and rehabilitation phases of critical illness, free from complications, with a comprehensive discharge plan allowing the patient to return home for self-care.
Downloads
Article Details

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
References
World Stroke Organization [WSO] [Internet]. 2022 [cited 2023Aug 2]. Available from: http://www.world-stroke.org/news-and-blog/news/challenges-of-endovascular-treatment-of-acute-ischemic-stroke-in-different-regions-of-the-world-questionnaire
American Stroke Association. About Stroke [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023 Aug 12]. Available from: http://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke
Januszewicz L, Buesch B. Neurologic alterations: Neurologic Disorders and Therapeutic Management. In Critical Care Nursing: Diagnosis and Management. 2018; 649-62.
Hacke W, Kaste M, Bluhmki E, et al. Thrombolysis with alteplase 3 to 4.5 hours after acute ischemic stroke. N Engl J Med. 2008; 359(13): 1317-29. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa0804656.
National Institute of Emergency Medicine Ministry of Public Health [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023Aug 2]. Available from: http://www.hiso.or.th/thaihealthstat/agegroup/index.php?a=6&ht=1&d=2_3.
World Health Organization. World Stroke Campaign [Internet]. 2015 [cited 2023Dec 11]. Available from: https://www.world-stroke.org/world-stroke-day-campaign
Division of Medicine Nursing Maharat Nakhonratchasima Hospital. Quality assurance work Medicine Nursing Maharat Nakhonratchasima; 2022.
Sisakhot K. Development of a management planning model Integrated distribution in stroke patients [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023 Dec 11]. Available from: https://he02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/TJONC/article/download/258614/176504
Meleis. Transitions Theory: Middle Range and Situation Specific Theories in Nursing Research and Practice. 5th ed. New York: Springer Publishing Company; 2010.
Bakas T, Farran CJ, Austin JK, et al. Content validity and satisfaction with a stroke caregiver intervention program. Journal of Nursing Scholarship. 2009; 41(4): 368-75. doi: org/10.1111/j.1547-5069.2009.01282.x.