TIA and minor stroke: a qualitative study of long-term impact and experiences of follow-up care
Publication Date
2019-12-17Journal Title
BMC Family Practice
Publisher
BioMed Central
Volume
20
Issue
1
Language
en
Type
Article
This Version
VoR
Metadata
Show full item recordCitation
Turner, G. M., McMullan, C., Atkins, L., Foy, R., Mant, J., & Calvert, M. (2019). TIA and minor stroke: a qualitative study of long-term impact and experiences of follow-up care. BMC Family Practice, 20 (1)https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-019-1057-x
Abstract
Abstract: Background: Transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke are often considered transient events; however, many patients experience residual problems and reduced quality of life. Current follow-up healthcare focuses on stroke prevention and care for other long-term problems is not routinely provided. We aimed to explore patient and healthcare provider (HCP) experiences of residual problems post-TIA/minor stroke, the impact of TIA/minor stroke on patients’ lives, and current follow-up care and sources of support. Methods: This qualitative study recruited participants from three TIA clinics, seven general practices and one community care trust in the West Midlands, England. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 TIA/minor stroke patients and 24 HCPs from primary, secondary and community care. Data was analysed using framework analysis. Results: A diverse range of residual problems were reported post-TIA/minor stroke, including psychological, cognitive and physical impairments. Consultants and general practitioners generally lacked awareness of these long-term problems; however, there was better recognition among nurses and allied HCPs. Residual problems significantly affected patients’ lives, including return to work, social activities, and relationships with family and friends. Follow-up care was variable and medically focused. While HCPs prioritised medical investigations and stroke prevention medication, patients emphasised the importance of understanding their diagnosis, individualised support regarding stroke risk, and addressing residual problems. Conclusion: HCPs could better communicate information about TIA/minor stroke diagnosis and secondary stroke prevention using lay language, and improve their identification of and response to important residual impairments affecting patients.
Keywords
Research Article, Knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, education, and communication, Transient ischemic attack, Minor stroke, Quality of life, Rehabilitation, Qualitative
Sponsorship
National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) (PDF-2017-10-047)
Identifiers
s12875-019-1057-x, 1057
External DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-019-1057-x
This record's URL: https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/315422
Rights
Licence:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/