The development of practice guidelines for referring acute ischemic stroke patients for mechanical thrombectomy in Samut Sakhon Hospital

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop guidelines for referring acute ischemic stroke patients for mechanical thrombectomy in Samut Sakhon Hospital and study the feasibility and satisfaction with using guidelines for referring acute ischemic stroke patients for mechanical thrombectomy in Samut Sakhon Hospital. The sample was 12 stroke nurses. Data collection tools were a questionnaire on the feasibility of implementing the guidelines, a Satisfaction questionnaire, and an Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation II (AGREE II).

Guidelines for referring acute ischemic stroke patients for mechanical thrombectomy Samut Sakhon Hospital were developed from 15 empirical evidence. The guideline consisted of 5 steps such as: 1) evaluate large cerebral artery occlusions, 2) evaluate indications for mechanical thrombectomy, 3) prepare for referral, 4) nursing care provision during patient transfer, and 5) handing over patients. The feasibility score of using guidelines is at a very good level and nurses have a very good level of satisfaction. The guidelines were pilot-studied by five patients resulting in nurses could perform practically every step.

Recommendations: The developed guidelines should be used to refer ischemic stroke patients for mechanical thrombectomy in Samut Sakhon Hospital and follow up for evaluation to improve it to be more efficient.