Decreasing 'Door-to-CT' Time in Stroke Patients Presenting via Ambulance: Best Practice Guidelines

Ischemic strokes continue to be a debilitating and lethal medical emergency for millions of people every year. Derived from clinical studies, the American Heart Association (AHA) has developed guidelines which outline the most effective treatments, timeframes for treatments, and steps for acute care of patients having a stroke. Unfortunately, only a small fraction of stroke patients are receiving treatment and research has shown that hospital time delays are a contributing factor. Using a literature review, a best practice guideline and algorithm was formed in order to decrease door-to-CT times for stroke patients who present via ambulance. The guideline and algorithm was analyzed by experts who are familiar with current stroke guidelines within the Joint Commission, and unanimously support these best practice changes for decreasing door-to-CT times. The goal is to be within the AHA recommendation of 25 minutes and furthermore increase the number of ischemic stroke patients who are treated with potentially lifesaving treatment.