Stroke

This information explains what happens if you have attended an Emergency Department (ED or A&E) and been diagnosed as having possibly had a stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA).

If this is the first time you have had this diagnosed but are deemed fit for discharge it is likely (unless you've been advised otherwise) that you will be referred to the neurovascular clinic as an outpatient. This is sometimes known as the stroke clinic or TIA clinic. You may well have been started on some medication (secondary prevention medication) to reduce the chance of having a further event.

You must not drive until seen at the clinic and advised appropriately regarding driving.

The neurovascular clinic team will aim to have an appointment with you within 4 days of receiving your referral. This may be a phone appointment or you may be asked to come to the clinic for your appointment. If you have not been phoned with an appointment within 5 days please contact the stroke nurse.

If at any point after leaving the Emergency Department and waiting for the review appointment you have recurrence of your symptoms, such that you think you are having a further stroke or TIA, please follow the national advice and dial 999.

This information is for you and your family after you have attended the stroke or TIA clinic.

3-4 weeks after your attendance at the clinic you will receive a follow up call from the stroke nurse service. The nurse will:

• check how you have been feeling since attending the clinic
• check that you are managing your medication
• discuss going back to driving (where applicable)
• answer any questions you have about your stroke or TIA

If you have any questions, or anything that is worrying you, contact the stroke nurse.

The length of stay in the stroke unit varies very much from person to person and everyone will require a different type and length of rehabilitation.

In some cases this rehabilitation will take place in a Community Hospital closer to your own home. The vast majority of our patients return home. Some patients will require further rehabilitation following discharge. Some will be unable to return home. The options for discharge from the stroke unit will be discussed on an individual basis.

Arrangements for discharge will be discussed with you and your family. If a member of your family is collecting you, the nursing staff will assist you to the door and help with your luggage. Hospital transport is available but should be reserved where possible for those unable to go home by car. If you are going home by ambulance there is very limited space and we would ask you to arrange for your relatives to take home all your belongings, leaving just the minimum you need for the next day.

Different levels of rehabilitation may be available after discharge. The level and type of service will depend on where you live and your assessed needs, but may include:

• Community rehabilitation teams - physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy can be provided. This may be delivered remotely (by computer or phone).
• Stroke nurse service - a nurse will visit or telephone to offer advice and support post-discharge for you and for your family.
• Follow-up clinic with the stroke medical team.
• Follow-up clinic for rehabilitation, brain injury and posture assessment.
• Therapy delivered at your local GP practice or your local hospital.