Mutual trust: the key to successful assessment and treatment

When we first meet the individual who has just had a stroke and their family members, we have an opportunity to set the stage for the individual's long-term adjustment to the effects of their cerebrovascular event. Or we can squander that opportunity. By using an empathetic approach with individuals, we can often have a dramatically positive effect on adjustment and outcome over time. Building trust can make all the difference. When an individual is compromised by stroke, the family can become the bridge between the patient and the staff by providing the vital information needed to build trust. The assessment process gives the staff an opportunity to develop a trusting relationship with the individual and their family members. Only the investment of time on the part of the staff will guarantee the opportunity to develop and establish the rapport needed for effective treatment outcomes.