[Comprehensive stroke unit]

The concept of a "comprehensive stroke unit" (in German: Erweiterte Stroke-Unit) is an additional structural option for those stroke units already certified in Germany. Its aim is to complement the semi-intensive management of stroke unit patients in Germany by early mobilisation and neuropsychological rehab procedures. This concept is recommended in many European countries as well. It is based on the proof of efficacy of the combined treatment package in several randomised controlled trials. According to the Helsingborg Declaration, every stroke patient in Europe should have access to a chain of care best provided by a comprehensive stroke unit. Both early mobilisation and rehabilitation treatment can be integrated and continued without creating an interface between the acute stroke unit and the general neurological or medical ward. The monitoring beds of the acute stroke unit and the non-monitoring "enhanced care" beds are located within the same geographical area of the hospital and are run as a comprehensive stroke care entity. Continuous management of the acute stroke patients by the same team on the same unit means an increase in quality of care, better usage of staff resources and an additional gain in time. The scientific background of the advantages of a comprehensive stroke unit is described as are the structural and staff requirements. The clientel particularly benefiting from treatment on wards with enhanced care beds is described, and the spectrum of treatment services is defined. This concept will be used as the basis for an add-on qualification of already certified German stroke units. An important step was to fit the requirements of the comprehensive stroke unit to the already existing facilities and their infrastructures. From an economic point of view, the comprehensive stroke unit is expected to be cost-effective, either balanced or even positive.