ANALYSIS OF RESPONSE TIME AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN THE CARE OF STROKE PATIENTS IN AN EMERGENCY HOSPITAL: A RETROSPECTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and neurological disability worldwide. Consequently, early recognition of symptoms, appropriate care, agility in attendance, and the decisions made by the emergency healthcare team are essential for a better stroke prognosis. Objective: To analyze the response time of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department of an urgency and trauma hospital. Methodology: This is a retrospective, analytical cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Results: The mean time between symptom onset and arrival at the hospital was 14 hours; notably, 39% of the patients presented this interval. It is relevant to mention that, considering the recommended therapeutic window for stroke (0 to 4.5 hours), approximately 59% of the patients were attended to in a time exceeding 4.5 hours. Discussion: The delay in seeking care is frequently related to the lack of knowledge regarding symptoms and the underestimation of the event's severity factors that contribute to increased morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, mortality in the first months following an ischemic stroke is approximately 10%, potentially reaching 40% by the end of the first year, and survival depends on early treatment. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed critical points in the care of stroke victims, with significant delays observed in several stages of the care process for this patient profile.