Early Mobilization Post Acute Stroke Thrombolysis and/or Thrombectomy Survey

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Emergency Medicine
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Emergency stroke therapies like thrombolysis and thrombectomy are crucial for reperfusion.
• Understanding current mobilization practices post-stroke is essential for patient recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and document current mobilization practices in US stroke centers following emergency stroke reperfusion therapy.
• To identify variations in bed rest protocols and mobilization procedures.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous survey was distributed to hospitals within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) StrokeNet.
• The survey collected data on stroke center designation, admission location, formal bed rest policies, minimum bed rest duration, and the primary personnel involved in initial patient mobilization.

Main Results:

• 48 stroke centers responded, with 45 designated as Comprehensive Stroke Centers.
• Significant variability exists in minimum bed rest periods following thrombolysis (0-24 hours) and thrombectomy (0-24 hours).
• Nurses (52%) and physical therapists (48%) were equally involved in the first mobilization of patients.

Conclusions:

• Mobilization practices after acute ischemic stroke reperfusion therapy show considerable heterogeneity across stroke centers.
• Current practices indicate a significant variation in bed rest duration and mobilization protocols.
• Further research is warranted to establish optimal mobilization strategies following acute ischemic stroke treatments.