A Dutch 'Poststroke Guide': distribution and use

Stroke patients and caregivers have a substantial need for information. The Dutch 'Poststroke Guide' was written in an attempt to meet this need. The study investigates the distribution of this guide among stroke patients, caregivers, and stroke providers. Stroke patients and caregivers who ordered a copy of the first edition received a questionnaire to evaluate the guide and to provide information about personal characteristics. Nearly one-third of the guides finds its way directly to stroke patients and/or caregivers and more than two-thirds goes to providers. Since providers are calling stroke patients' attention to the guide to an increasing extent, the information for caregivers ought to be improved. Mainly young, slightly disabled male stroke patients with healthy caregivers returned the questionnaire. Both stroke patients and caregivers read the guide thoroughly; it clearly meets their need for information. In the future, distribution will have to be less selective.