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Background and ObjectivesIn response to the COVID-19 pandemic, outpatient stroke care delivery was rapidly transformed to outpatient evaluation through video (VTM) and telephone (TPH) telemedicine (TM) visits around the world. We sought to evaluate the sociodemographic differences in outpatient TM use among stroke patients.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective chart review of outpatients evaluated at 3 tertiary stroke centers in the early period of the pandemic, 3/16/2020 through 7/31/2020. We compared the use of TM by patient characteristics including age, sex, race/ethnicity, insurance status, stroke type, patient type, and site. The association between TM use and patient characteristics was measured using the relative risk (RR) from a modified Poisson regression, and site-specific effects were controlled using a multilevel analysis.ResultsA total of 2,024 visits were included from UTHealth (n = 878), MedStar Health (n = 269), and Columbia (n = 877). The median age was 64 [IQR 52–74] years, and 53% were female. Approximately half of the patients had private insurance, 36% had Medicare, and 15% had Medicaid. Two-thirds of the visits were established patients. TM accounted for 90% of total visits, and the use of TM over office visits was primarily associated with site, not patient characteristics. TM utilization was associated with Asian and other/unknown race. Among TM users, older age, Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, and Medicaid insurance were associated with lower VTM use. Black (aRR 0.88, 95% CI 0.86–0.91,p< 0.001) and Hispanic patients (aRR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87–0.98,p= 0.005) had approximately 10% lower VTM use, while Asian patients (aRR 0.98, 95% CI 0.89–1.07,p= 0.59) had similar VTM use compared with White patients. Patients with Medicaid were less likely to use VTM compared with those with private insurance (aRR 0.86, 95% CI 0.81–0.91,p< 0.001).DiscussionIn our diverse cohort across 3 centers, we found differences in TM visit type by race and insurance early during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings suggest disparities in VTM access across different stroke populations. As VTM remains an integral part of outpatient neurology practice, steps to ensure equitable access are essential.

Background Most vascular events after stroke may be prevented by modifying vascular risk factors through medical and behavioral interventions. Stroke literacy—an understanding of stroke symptoms, risk factors, and treatment—likely contributes to vascular risk factor control and in turn stroke recurrence risk. Stroke literacy is the lowest among adults belonging to racial and ethnic minority populations in the United States. Video-based interventions targeting stroke literacy may help acute stroke survivors understand stroke and subsequently reduce the risk of stroke recurrence. However, the failure of prior stroke literacy interventions may be due in part to the fact that the interventions were not theory-driven. Intervention mapping (IM) provides a framework for use in the development, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-informed, health-related interventions. Objective We aimed to develop a video-based educational intervention to improve stroke literacy in hospitalized patients with acute stroke. Methods The 6-step iterative process of IM was used to develop a video-based educational intervention and related implementation and evaluation plans. The six steps included a needs assessment, the identification of outcomes and change objectives, the selection of theory- and video-based intervention methods and practical applications, the development of a video-based stroke educational intervention, plans for implementation, and evaluation strategies. Results A 5-minute video-based educational intervention was developed. The IM approach led to successful intervention development by emphasizing stakeholder involvement, generation and adoption, and information retainment in the planning phase of the intervention. A planned approach to video adoption, implementation, and evaluation was also developed. Conclusions An IM approach guided the development of a 5-minute video-based educational intervention to promote stroke literacy among acute stroke survivors. Future studies are needed to assess the use of technology and digital media to support widespread access and participation in video-based health literacy interventions for populations with acute and chronic stroke. Studies are needed to assess the impact of video-based educational interventions that are paired with stroke systems of care optimization to reduce the risk of stroke recurrence. Furthermore, studies on culturally and linguistically sensitive video-based stroke literacy interventions are needed to address known racial and ethnic disparities in stroke literacy. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.1371/journal.pone.0171952

Background: Prolonged hospital lengths of stay increase costs, delay rehabilitation, and expose acute ischemic stroke patients to hospital-acquired infections. We designed and implemented a nurse-driven transitions of care coordinator (TOCC) program to facilitate the transition of care from the acute care hospital setting to rehabilitation centers and home.Methods: This was a single-blinded, prospective, randomized pilot study of 40 participants to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a TOCC program led by a stroke nurse navigator in hospitalized acute ischemic stroke patients. The intervention consisted of a stroke nurse navigator completing eight specific tasks, including meeting with stroke patients and their families, facilitating communication between team members at multi-disciplinary rounds, assisting with referrals to rehabilitation facilities, providing stroke education, and arranging stroke clinic follow-up appointments, which were confirmed to be completed by independent study personnel. The primary outcome was to assess the feasibility of the program. The secondary outcomes included comparing hospital length of stay (LOS) and patient satisfaction between the TOCC and usual care groups. We also explored the association between patient-level variables and LOS.Results: The TOCC program was feasible with all pre-specified components completed in 84.2% (95% CI: 60.4–96.6%) and was not significantly different from the assumed completion rate of 75% (p = 0.438). There was no significant difference in median LOS between the two groups [TOCC 5.95 days (4.02, 9.57) vs. usual care 4.01 days (2.00, 10.45), false discovery rate (FDR)-adjusted p = 0.138]. There was a trend toward higher patient median satisfaction in the TOCC group [TOCC 35.00 (33.00, 35.00) vs. usual care 30 (26.00, 35.00), FDR-adjusted p = 0.1] as assessed by a questionnaire at 30 days after discharge. The TOCC study allowed us to identify patient variables (gender, insurance, stroke severity, and discharge disposition) that were significantly associated with longer hospital LOS.Conclusion: A TOCC program is feasible and can serve as a guide for future allocation of resources to facilitate transitions of care and avoid prolonged hospital stays.

Background and Issues: Hispanics have higher stroke incidence and recurrence and are less likely to know the signs and symptoms of stroke compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Stroke awareness education promotes the recognition of the common signs and symptoms of stroke and subsequent treatment-seeking behaviors resulting in improved outcomes. Acronyms have been created to bring awareness to key stroke sign and symptom indicators; however, there are discrepancies when translating existing acronyms for Spanish-speakers. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to create and update a stroke awareness acronym for the inclusivity of Spanish-speakers. Methods: We searched the literature and were unable to identify translations of the commonly publicized FAST or BE-FAST acronyms into recognizable and relatable Spanish words across various dialects. Led by a Spanish-speaking nurse with experience working with stroke patients, our research team identified Spanish words that are used across various dialects for the translation of the BE-FAST acronym (balance, eyes, face, arm, speed, and time). Diverse Spanish-speaking members of our research team incorporated relatable images and reviewed the translated acronym for content and clarity. Results: We created the acronym RAPIDO for Spanish-speakers. Similar to FAST and BE-FAST, RAPIDO illustrates warning signs and symptoms of stroke and the need to seek treatment quickly. Conclusions: The creation of the RAPIDO acronym constitutes an important step in providing stroke awareness education to Spanish-speakers. If validated with the broader healthcare professional and lay community, adding the RAPIDO acronym to public stroke educational programs may be warranted.

Introduction: Uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) is a major risk factor for recurrent stroke; however, up to 50% of stroke survivors have uncontrolled BP 6 months after stroke. Characterization of factors associated with uncontrolled BP early after stroke discharge (DC) may help to identify patients for BP interventions. Hypothesis: We sought to identify factors associated with uncontrolled BP in the first month after stroke discharge. We hypothesized that African American (AA) race, insurance status, medication complexity, and hospital BP prior to discharge would be associated with uncontrolled BP. Methods: We identified hypertensive patients with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or transient ischemic attack scheduled to follow-up in the stroke clinic 2 to 4 weeks after hospital DC. Office BP was obtained using BpTRU, an automated machine that averages five unattended BP measures. Uncontrolled BP was defined using 2017 American College of Cardiology Guidelines as BP ≥ 130/80 mmHg. We used univariate logistic regression to assess relationships between uncontrolled BP and selected variables. Variables with statistically significant associations in the univariate models and variables associated with uncontrolled BP in the literature were included in the multiple logistic regression model. Results: Of the 230 patients identified, 55.7% had uncontrolled BP at clinic follow-up. In univariate and multivariable analyses, AA race, young stroke (age < 50), and systolic BP (SBP) 24-hours prior to DC were significantly associated with uncontrolled BP early after stroke DC. BP medication complexity was not associated with uncontrolled BP in this study. Conclusions: AA race, young age, and elevate SBP in the 24 hours prior to of stroke DC were associated with uncontrolled BP early after stroke. These variables can be used to identify patients who may benefit from early interventions aimed at reducing the risk of uncontrolled BP after stroke and stroke recurrence.

Background and Purpose— The aim of this study is to determine agreement among vascular neurology fellows and faculty in treating patients with acute ischemic stroke with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator and intra-arterial thrombectomy (IAT). Methods— Patients were evaluated simultaneously by at least 2 vascular neurology. Agreement was determined using kappa (κ) and intraclass correlation coefficients. Results— In 60 patients, agreement was substantial for tissue-type plasminogen activator (κ=0.75 [95% confidence interval, 0.57–0.92]) and IAT (κ=0.63 [95% confidence interval, 0.30–0.96]), with no difference between fellow–fellow versus fellow–faculty. Intraclass correlation coefficient for National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 0.94 (95% confidence interval, 0.90–0.97) and κ for Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score was 0.53 (95% confidence interval, 0.20–0.78). Rapidly improving or mild deficits caused disagreement for both tissue-type plasminogen activator and IAT, whereas interpretation of computed tomographic perfusion led to disagreement for IAT. Conclusions— We found substantial agreement between vascular neurology fellows and faculty in treating with tissue-type plasminogen activator or IAT. Areas for improvement include recognition of stroke mimics, consensus on treating less severe strokes, and use/interpretation of imaging.

Background and purpose Interventions are needed to improve stroke literacy among recent stroke survivors. We developed an educational video for patients hospitalized with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Methods A 5-minute stroke education video was shown to our AIS and ICH patients admitted from March to June 2015. Demographics and a 5-minute protocol Montreal Cognitive Assessment were also collected. Questions related to stroke knowledge, self-efficacy, and patient satisfaction were answered before, immediately after, and 30 days after the video. Results Among 250 screened, 102 patients consented, and 93 completed the video intervention. There was a significant difference between pre-video median knowledge score of 6 (IQR 4–7) and the post-video score of 7 (IQR 6–8; p

IntroductionHypertension is a major risk factor for recurrent stroke, and blood pressure (BP) reduction is associated with decreased risk of stroke recurrence. However, many stroke survivors have poorly controlled BP after their initial stroke. The Stroke Transitions Education and Prevention (STEP) Clinic was established to provide a comprehensive approach to stroke risk factor reduction.Methods and analysisThis randomised comparative effectiveness study was designed to assess the impact of care in the STEP clinic versus usual care on poststroke BP reduction. Eligible hospitalised patients with ischaemic stroke, haemorrhagic stroke or transient ischaemic attack are scheduled for a clinic screening visit within 4 weeks of discharge if they meet baseline inclusion criteria. At the clinic visit, patients who have uncontrolled BP, defined as automated office BP ≥135/85 mm Hg are randomised (1:1) to either the STEP clinic or usual care for management. STEP clinic patients receive instructions to self-monitor, a BP monitor, sleep apnoea screening, dietary counselling, review of BP monitoring records and adjustment of medications. Patients are followed by a neurologist and a stroke-trained nurse practitioner. Usual care participants are seen by a neurologist and recommendations for secondary prevention are sent to primary care providers. The primary outcome is the difference in mean daytime ambulatory systolic BP at 6 months, assessed using linear regression analysis. Secondary outcomes include 24 hours ambulatory BP, medication adherence and medication self-efficacy, and composite cardiovascular events.Ethics and disseminationThis study was approved by the Institutional Review Boards at the McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center and the Georgetown University School of Medicine. Uninsured and Spanish-speaking patients are included in the study.Trial registration numberNCT02591394; Pre-results.

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) in order to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. A 36-year-old man developed encephalitis caused by HAT. This encephalitis can appear many years after well-tolerated systemic infection. The neurologic manifestations developed 7 years after he had emigrated from Cameroon to the United States. We demonstrate the magnetic resonance imaging before, during, and after his treatment with intravenous eflornithine. Clinical signs and symptoms of HAT can be nonspecific and precede abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging. Human African trypanosomiasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who have lived in sub-Saharan Africa and have a clinical presentation of subacute encephalitis.

Introduction: Depression screening may not be feasible for all stroke patients during their hospitalization, and depression may be missed if screening is not performed in the outpatient setting. Hypothesis: We sought to assess the proportion of patients with depression, and describe the severity of depressive symptoms in patients who could not be screened during hospitalization. We hypothesized that depressive symptoms can be missed in those who are not screened. Methods: Ischemic strokes (July 2014- July 2015) were identified from the clinic registry. In the clinic, we use Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) to assess depressive symptoms for all patients. Univariate and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to evaluate associations between PHQ-9 and age, sex, race, baseline National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and antidepressant use for patients who missed inpatient depression screening. Results: Among 159 ischemic stroke patients, 136 completed outpatient PHQ-9 within 90 days from stroke onset. Of these 41 (30%) were missing inpatient PHQ-9. Reasons for missing scores included aphasia or cognitive impairment (20), failed inpatient attempt (16), or unspecified reasons (5). Among the 41 patients, median time to follow-up was 40 days (IQR 33 - 50). Mean (SD) age was 63.7 (13.8) and 51.2% were female. Mean (SD) PHQ-9 score was 8.0 (6.61). The overall proportion of patients having at least mild depression was 60.1% (95 % CI 45.3, 76.5) and PHQ-9 scores were distributed as follows: none to minimal depressive symptoms, 39.0%; mild to moderate, 43.9%, moderately severe to severe, 17.1%. In the regression model, mRS at follow-up (dichotomized < 3 & ≥ 3) was associated with severity of depressive symptoms after adjusting for age, sex, and baseline NIHSS, (coefficient 4.1, 95% CI 1.38, 6.82). Other variables were not associated with severity of depressive symptoms. Conclusions: Patients who cannot be screened for depression during hospitalization may have depressive symptoms and should be screened as soon as feasible after discharge. Alternative methods to screen cognitively impaired patients need to be developed.