[Evaluation of care delivered to stroke patients in a French hospital]

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of care provided in a university hospital to stroke patients with the use of an evaluation of practice carried out by comparing results to the recommendations of the High Authority of Health (HAS). The study period covered two years (2005 and 2006). The study was retrospective based on patients' medical records (n=154), and it compared local medical practices to national guidelines. Significant gaps with the recommended practices were noted, in particular in the prescription of additional examinations and their delay in being carried out. There were also noticeable deficiencies in therapeutic care. Furthermore, there was a certain element of heterogeneity of care in the acute phase of stroke attack within the same hospital service. Establishment of a multidisciplinary medical team including at least two neurologists who are aware of and motivated by evaluation would be an opportunity for this hospital to improve services. In addition, the referral of stroke patients to a specialized service and the implementation of a standardized template card to collect clinical criteria are also proposed.