Update of secondary stroke prevention

Update of secondary stroke prevention.

Secondary prevention aims at preventing a stroke after a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or a recurrent stroke after a first stroke. About 80–85% of patients survive a first ischaemic stroke [1,2]. Of those, between 8 and 15% suffer a recurrent stroke in the first year. The risk of stroke recurrence is highest in the first few weeks and declines over time [3–5]. The risk of recurrence depends ...

Update on the management of hypertension for secondary stroke prevention.

High blood pressure (BP) is the strongest risk factor for stroke. It is estimated that almost 50% of strokes may be attributable to hypertension. Both diastolic and isolated systolic hypertension are important predictors of primary or recurrent strokes, and even minor decreases in BP can reduce the risk of stroke. While the primary prevention of stroke through the treatment of hypertension is w...

Update on implantable loop recorders for secondary stroke prevention.

Implantable loop recorders are used to detect abnormal arrhythmias in patients with unexplained syncope. These devices capture paradoxical episodes of atrial fibrillation and may be helpful for patients with unexplained stroke. Nurses should be familiar with safety and care instructions and take precautions surrounding diagnostic testing in patients with these devices.

Secondary stroke prevention in 2011: an update on available options.

Secondary prevention of stroke.

Stroke has been defined as a rapid onset of focal neurological deficit lasting more than 24 hours, with no apparent cause other than disruption of the blood supply to the brain (World Health Organization, 1989). A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) refers to a similar presentation that resolves within 24 hours (Hankey and Warlow, 1994). Approximately 15% of strokes are haemorrhagic, with the rest...