Role of the nurse in stroke rehabilitation
To assist you to provide effective, holistic nursing care to patients who have had a stroke, as well as their families and carers
To understand the causes and risk factors for stroke, and implement effective stroke prevention strategies
To count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers)
To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)
Stroke is a leading cause of death and adult disability in the UK. A stroke can have significant negative effects on the lives of patients and their families and carers. While improved stroke management has contributed to a reduction in mortality and improved outcomes following rehabilitation, the incidence of stroke continues to rise in the UK, partly because of the ageing population. Stroke rehabilitation involves a multidisciplinary approach, with nurses performing a central role. This article describes the risk factors and types of stroke, the main areas of stroke rehabilitation and the role of the nurse. It emphasises that providing support to families and carers is a particularly important element of caring for people who have experienced a stroke.
