Secondary prevention

 

Recommendations 5.2.1

A. For each patient, an individualised and comprehensive strategy for stroke prevention should be implemented as soon as possible following a TIA or stroke and continue in the long term

B.  For each patient, information about, and treatment for, stroke and risk factors should be:

• Given first in the hospital setting
• Reinforced at every opportunity by all health professionals involved in the care of the patient
• Provided in an appropriate format for the patient

C. Patients should have their risk factors reviewed and monitored regularly in primary care, at a minimum on a yearly basis.

D.  All patients receiving medication for secondary prevention should:

• Be given information about the reason for the medication, how and when to take it and any possible common side effects
• Receive verbal and written information about their medicines in a format appropriate to their needs and abilities
• Have compliance aids such as large-print labels and non-childproof tops provided, dosette boxes according to their level of manual dexterity, cognitive impairment and personal preference and compatibility with safety in the home environment
• Be aware of how to obtain further supplies of medication

Sources 5.2.2

A. Consensus
B. Maasland et al. 2007; Ovbiagele et al. 2004; Sit et al. 2007
C. Consensus; UK General Practice Quality and Outcomes Framework; English National Stroke Strategy quality marker two
D. Consensus