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Updated: May 22, 2026
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Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide
Published on: January 15, 2017
Siriraj Acute Stroke Unit: 10 years experience.
Songchai Chinwatanakul1, Kanokwan Boonyapisit, Darakul Pornsriniyom
1Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Summary
Siriraj Acute Stroke Unit (SASU) care for acute stroke patients is comparable to global standards. Admission to SASU improves survival and reduces hospital stays.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Public Health
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally.
- Optimized management strategies for acute stroke patients include thrombolytic therapy, antiplatelet drugs, and dedicated stroke units.
- The Siriraj Acute Stroke Unit (SASU) in Thailand was established in May 1997.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes and characteristics of patients admitted to the Siriraj Acute Stroke Unit (SASU).
- To assess the effectiveness of stroke care provided by SASU compared to international standards.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of stroke patient data admitted to SASU from May 1997 to May 2007.
- Inclusion of hyperacute stroke patients (within 3 hours of onset).
- Statistical analysis using SPSS 11.0.
Main Results:
- 2,109 patients were admitted over 10 years; mean age 65.35 years.
- Ischemic stroke (86.7%) was more common than hemorrhagic stroke (13.26%).
- Key risk factors included hypertension (61.79%), diabetes (35.47%), and hyperlipidemia (46.58%). Mortality rate was 3.4%.
Conclusions:
- The standard of care at SASU is on par with international stroke units.
- SASU admission is associated with improved survival rates and shorter hospital stays for acute stroke patients.
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