Circulation Atmegiso tmO Learn and live JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION Part 9: Adult Stroke Circulation 2005: 1 12; 1 1 1-120; originally published online Nov 28, 2005 DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA 105. 166562 Circulation is published by the American Heart Association. 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Tx 72514 Copyright o 2005 American Heart Association. All rights reserved. Print ISSN: 0009-7322. Online ISSN:15244539 The online version of this article, along with updated information and services, is located on the world wide web at http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/112/24suppl/iv-111 Subscriptions: Information about subscribing to Circulation is online at http://circ.ahajournals.org/subsriptions/ Permissions: Permissions Rights Desk, Lippincott Williams Wilkins, 351 West Cam Street. Baltimore MD 21202-2436 Phone 410-5280-4050. Fax: 410-528-8550 En journalpermissions@lww.com Reprints: Information about reprints can be found online at http://www.Iww.com/static/html/reprints.html Downloaded from circ. ahajournals. org by on February 21, 2006
ISSN: 1524-4539 Copyright © 2005 American Heart Association. All rights reserved. Print ISSN: 0009-7322. Online 72514 Circulation is published by the American Heart Association. 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.166562 Circulation 2005;112;111-120; originally published online Nov 28, 2005; Part 9: Adult Stroke http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/112/24_suppl/IV-111 located on the World Wide Web at: The online version of this article, along with updated information and services, is http://www.lww.com/static/html/reprints.html Reprints: Information about reprints can be found online at journalpermissions@lww.com Street, Baltimore, MD 21202-2436. Phone 410-5280-4050. Fax: 410-528-8550. Email: Permissions: Permissions & Rights Desk, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 351 West Camden http://circ.ahajournals.org/subsriptions/ Subscriptions: Information about subscribing to Circulation is online at Downloaded from circ.ahajournals.org by on February 21, 2006
Part 9: Adult stroke E ach year in the United States about 700 000 people of all Stroke Recognition and EMS Care ages suffer a new or repeat stroke. Approximately 158 000 of these people will die, making stroke the third Stroke Warning Signs eading cause of death in the United States . Many advances important because fibrinolytic treatment must be provided itation 3.4 For example, fibrinolytic therapy can limit the within a few hours of onset of symptoms.5. 12 Most strokes extent of neurologic damage from stroke and improve out- occur at home, and only half of all victims of acute stroke use EMS for transport to the hospital. 3-15 In addition, stroke come, but the time available for treatment is limited.5.b victims often deny or rationalize16 their symptoms. This can Healthcare provider velop systems to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of delay EMs access and treatment and result in increased stroke care 3 The "7 D's of Stroke Care"detection. dis- morbidity and mortality. Even high-risk patients fail to recognize the signs of a stroke. 6 Community and profes- patch, delivery, door(arrival and urgent triage in the emer- sional education is essential, I7 and it has successfully in gency department ED]), data, decision, and drug administra tion--highlight the major steps in diagnosis and treatment lytic therapy.19 creased the proportion of stroke victims treated with fibrino- This chapter sum the management of acute stroke The signs and symptoms of a stroke may be subtle. They in the adult patient. It summarizes out-of-hospital include sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, about the management of acute ischemic stroke, see the trouble speaking or understanding: sudden trouble seeing in AHA/American Stroke Association(ASA)guidelines for the one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of management of acute ischemic stroke. 9 balance or coordination: or sudden severe headache with no Management goals EMS Dispatch The goal of stroke care is to minimize brain injury and maximize patient recovery. The AHA and AsA developed urrently <10% of patients with acute ischemic stroke are community-oriented"Stroke Chain of Survival"that links ultimately eligible for fibrinolytic therapy because they fail to actions to be taken by patients, family members, and health arrive at the receiving hospital within 3 hours of onset of care providers to maximize stroke recovery. These links are symptoms. 20-24 EMS systems must provide education and training to Rapid recognition and reaction to stroke warning signs minimize delays in prehospital dispatch, assessment, and Rapid emergency medical services(EMS ) dispatch transport. Emergency medical dispatchers must identify po Rapid EMS system transport and hospital prenotification tential stroke victims and provide high-priority dispatch to Rapid diagnosis and treatment in the hospital patients with possible stroke. EMS providers must be able to the initial support cardiopulmonary function, perform rapid stroke as The AHA ECC stroke guidelines focus on the initial sessment, establish time of onset of symptoms (or last time out-of-hospital and ED assessment and management of the the patient was known to be normal), triage and transport the patient with acute stroke as depicted in the algorithm Goals patient, and provide prearrival notification to the receiving for Management of Patients With Suspected Stroke(Figure). hospital(Box 2). 25-22 The time goals of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke(NINDS) I are illustrated along the left Stroke assessment Tools side of the algorithm as clocks with a sweep hand depicting EMS providers can identify stroke patients with reasonable the goal in minutes from ED arrival to task completion to sensitivity and specificity, using abbreviated out-of-hospital remind the clinician of the time-sensitive nature of manage- tools such as the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale ment of acute ischemic stroke (CPSS)7,( Table 1)or the Los Angeles Prehospital The sections below summarize the principles and goals of Stroke Screen(LAPSS)(Table 2). 32.33 The CPSS is based or stroke assessment and management, highlighting key contro- physical examination only. The EMS provider checks for 3 ries, new recommendations, and training issues. The text physical findings: facial droop, arm weakness, and speech refers to the numbered boxes in the algorithm abnormalities. The presence of a single abnormality on the CPSS has a sensitivity of 59% and a specificity of 89% when scored by prehospital providers. 0 The LAPSS requires the (Circulation. 2005: 112: IV-1ll-IV-120) examiner to rule out other causes of altered level of con o 2005 American Heart Association sciousness(eg, history of seizures, hypoglycemia) and ther This special supplement to Circulation is freely available at identify asymmetry in any of 3 examination categories: facial smile or grimace, grip, and arm strength. The LAPSS has a DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA. 105.166562 pecificity of 97% and a sensitivity of 93% IV-IlI
Part 9: Adult Stroke Each year in the United States about 700 000 people of all ages suffer a new or repeat stroke. Approximately 158 000 of these people will die, making stroke the third leading cause of death in the United States.1,2 Many advances have been made in stroke prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.3,4 For example, fibrinolytic therapy can limit the extent of neurologic damage from stroke and improve outcome, but the time available for treatment is limited.5,6 Healthcare providers, hospitals, and communities must develop systems to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of stroke care.3 The “7 D’s of Stroke Care”— detection, dispatch, delivery, door (arrival and urgent triage in the emergency department [ED]), data, decision, and drug administration— highlight the major steps in diagnosis and treatment and the key points at which delays can occur.7,8 This chapter summarizes the management of acute stroke in the adult patient. It summarizes out-of-hospital care through the first hours of therapy. For additional information about the management of acute ischemic stroke, see the AHA/American Stroke Association (ASA) guidelines for the management of acute ischemic stroke.9,10 Management Goals The goal of stroke care is to minimize brain injury and maximize patient recovery. The AHA and ASA developed a community-oriented “Stroke Chain of Survival” that links actions to be taken by patients, family members, and healthcare providers to maximize stroke recovery. These links are ● Rapid recognition and reaction to stroke warning signs ● Rapid emergency medical services (EMS) dispatch ● Rapid EMS system transport and hospital prenotification ● Rapid diagnosis and treatment in the hospital The AHA ECC stroke guidelines focus on the initial out-of-hospital and ED assessment and management of the patient with acute stroke as depicted in the algorithm Goals for Management of Patients With Suspected Stroke (Figure). The time goals of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)11 are illustrated along the left side of the algorithm as clocks with a sweep hand depicting the goal in minutes from ED arrival to task completion to remind the clinician of the time-sensitive nature of management of acute ischemic stroke. The sections below summarize the principles and goals of stroke assessment and management, highlighting key controversies, new recommendations, and training issues. The text refers to the numbered boxes in the algorithm. Stroke Recognition and EMS Care Stroke Warning Signs Identifying clinical signs of possible stroke (Box 1) is important because fibrinolytic treatment must be provided within a few hours of onset of symptoms.5,12 Most strokes occur at home, and only half of all victims of acute stroke use EMS for transport to the hospital.13–15 In addition, stroke victims often deny or rationalize16 their symptoms. This can delay EMS access and treatment and result in increased morbidity and mortality. Even high-risk patients fail to recognize the signs of a stroke.16 Community and professional education is essential,17 and it has successfully increased the proportion of stroke victims treated with fibrinolytic therapy.18,19 The signs and symptoms of a stroke may be subtle. They include sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; or sudden severe headache with no known cause. EMS Dispatch Currently 10% of patients with acute ischemic stroke are ultimately eligible for fibrinolytic therapy because they fail to arrive at the receiving hospital within 3 hours of onset of symptoms.20 –24 EMS systems must provide education and training to minimize delays in prehospital dispatch, assessment, and transport. Emergency medical dispatchers must identify potential stroke victims and provide high-priority dispatch to patients with possible stroke. EMS providers must be able to support cardiopulmonary function, perform rapid stroke assessment, establish time of onset of symptoms (or last time the patient was known to be normal), triage and transport the patient, and provide prearrival notification to the receiving hospital (Box 2).25–28 Stroke Assessment Tools EMS providers can identify stroke patients with reasonable sensitivity and specificity, using abbreviated out-of-hospital tools such as the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS)27,29 –31 (Table 1) or the Los Angeles Prehospital Stroke Screen (LAPSS) (Table 2).32,33 The CPSS is based on physical examination only. The EMS provider checks for 3 physical findings: facial droop, arm weakness, and speech abnormalities. The presence of a single abnormality on the CPSS has a sensitivity of 59% and a specificity of 89% when scored by prehospital providers.30 The LAPSS requires the examiner to rule out other causes of altered level of consciousness (eg, history of seizures, hypoglycemia) and then identify asymmetry in any of 3 examination categories: facial smile or grimace, grip, and arm strength. The LAPSS has a specificity of 97% and a sensitivity of 93%.32,33 (Circulation. 2005;112:IV-111-IV-120.) © 2005 American Heart Association. This special supplement to Circulation is freely available at http://www.circulationaha.org DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.166562 IV-111
IV- 12 Circulation December 13. 2005 dentify signs of possible stroke Critical EMS assessments and actions Support ABCs: give oxygen if needed Perform prehospital stroke assessment (Tables 1 and 2) Establish time when patient last known normal ( Note therapies may be available beyond 3 hours from onset Transport; consider triage to a center with a stroke unit if appropriate: consider bringing a witness, family ember, or caregiver Check glucose if possible Immediate general assessment and stabilization Assess ABCs, vital signs Provide oxygen if hypoxemic Obtain IV access and blood samples Check glucos Perform neurologic screening assessment Activate stroke team Order emergent CT scan of brain Obtain 12-lead EC mmediate neurologic assessment by stroke team or designee Review patient history Establish symptom onset Perform neurologic examination(NIH Stroke Scale or Canadian Neurologic Scale) Does CT scan show any hemorrhage? Probable acute ischemic stroke; consider fibrinolytic therapy Consult neurologist or neurosurgeon Check for fibrinolytic exclusions(Table 3) consider transfer if not available Repeat neurologic exam: are deficits rapidly improving to normal? Patient remains candidate for fibrinolytic therapy? Administer aspirin Review risks/benefits with patient and family If acceptable Admit to stroke unit if available Monitor BP: treat if indicated (Table 4) No anticoagulants or antiplatelet treatment for Monitor neurologic status; emergent CT 24 hours Monitor blood glucose; treat if needed Initiate supportive therapy; treat Goals for Management of Patients With Suspected Stroke Algorithm
Goals for Management of Patients With Suspected Stroke Algorithm. IV-112 Circulation December 13, 2005
Part 9: Adult Stroke / V-113 Facial D 1. The Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale providers should support cardiopulmonary function, monitor Droop(have patient show teeth or smile): neurologic status, and if authorized by medical control, check Normahboth sides of face move equally Abnormak-one side of face does not move as well as the other side Patients with acute stroke are at risk for respiratory ompromise from aspiration, upper airway obstruction, hy Left: normal. Right: stroke patient with facial droop(right side of face Kothari R, et al. Acad Emerg Med. 1997; 4: 986-990 poventilation, and (rarely) neurogenic pulmonary edema. The combination of poor perfusion and hypoxemia will exacer bate and extend ischemic brain injury and it has been associated with worse outcome from stroke. 38 Although one small randomized clinical trial (LoE 2)39 of selected stroke patients suggested a transient improvement in clinical deficit and mri abnormalities following 8 hours of high-flow (by face mask ), a laI randomized trial (oe 3) 0 did not show any clinical benefit from routine administration of low-flow (3 L/min)oxygen for 24 hours to all patients with ischemic stroke. In contrast, the administration of supplementary oxygen to the subset of stroke patients who are hypoxemic is indirectly supported by several studies showing improved functional outcomes and survival of stroke patients treated in dedicated stroke units in which higher supplementary oxygen concentrations were Arm Drift(patient closes eyes and holds both arms straight out for 10 used(LOE7).38.394142 Both out-of-hospital and in-hospital medical Normakboth arms move the same or both arms do not move at all should administer supplementary oxygen to hypoxemic (ie, (other findings, such as pronator drift, may be helpful oxygen saturation <92%0) stroke patients( Class I)or those e Abnormakone arm does not move or one arm drifts down compared with unknown oxygen saturation. Clinicians may consider th the other giving oxygen to patients who are not hypoxemic(Class llb) Abnormal Speech(have the patient say"you can't teach an old dog The role of stroke centers and stroke units continues to be new tricks") debated.43 Initial evidence44-50 indicated a favorable benefit from triage of stroke patients directly to designated stroke Abnormal-patient slurs words, uses the wrong words, or is unable to centers(Class IIb), but the concept of routine out-of-hospital speak triage of stroke patients requires more rigorous evaluation. Interpretation: If any 1 of these 3 signs is abnormal, the probability of a Each receiving hospital should define its capability for stroke is 72%% treating patients with acute stroke and should communica this information to the EMS system and the community. With standard training in stroke recognition, paramedics Although not every hospital is capable of organizing the ing patients with stroke. 31,34,35 After training in using a stroke evel ry hospital with an ED should have a written plan assessment tool, paramedic sensitivity for identifying patients describing how patients with acute stroke are to be managed with stroke increased to 86% to 97%(Loe 3 to 5).33.36,37 in that institution. The plan should detail the roles of Therefore, all paramedics and emergency medical healthcare professionals in the care of patients with acute technicians-basic (EMT-basic) should be trained in the rec- stroke and define which patients will be treated with fibrino- ognition of stroke using a validated, abbreviated out-of- lytic therapy at that facility and when transfer to another hospital screening tool, such as the CPSS or the LAPSS hospital with a dedicated stroke unit is appropriate( Class lla) (Class Ila) Multiple randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses Transport and Care year survival rate, functional outcomes, and quality of life Once EMS providers suspect the diagnosis of stroke, they when patients hospitalized with acute stroke are cared for in should establish the time of onset of symptoms. This time a dedicated stroke unit by a multidisciplinary team experi- represents time zero for the patient. If the patient wakes from enced in managing stroke. Although the studies reported were sleep or is found with symptoms of a stroke, time zero is the conducted outside the United States in in-hospital units that last time the patient was observed to be normal. EMs provided both acute care and rehabilitation, the improved roviders must rapidly deliver the patient to a medical facility outcomes were apparent very early in the stroke care. These capable of providing acute stroke care and provide prearrival results should be relevant to the outcome of dedicated stroke notification to the receiving facility. 25 units staffed with experienced multidisciplinary teams in the EMS providers should consider transporting a witness, United States. When such a facility is available within a family member, or caregiver with the patient to verify the reasonable transport interval, stroke time of onset of stroke symptoms. En route to the facility hospitalization should be admitted there( Class D)
With standard training in stroke recognition, paramedics have demonstrated a sensitivity of 61% to 66% for identifying patients with stroke.31,34,35 After training in using a stroke assessment tool, paramedic sensitivity for identifying patients with stroke increased to 86% to 97% (LOE 3 to 5).33,36,37 Therefore, all paramedics and emergency medical technicians-basic (EMT-basic) should be trained in the recognition of stroke using a validated, abbreviated out-ofhospital screening tool, such as the CPSS or the LAPSS (Class IIa). Transport and Care Once EMS providers suspect the diagnosis of stroke, they should establish the time of onset of symptoms. This time represents time zero for the patient. If the patient wakes from sleep or is found with symptoms of a stroke, time zero is the last time the patient was observed to be normal. EMS providers must rapidly deliver the patient to a medical facility capable of providing acute stroke care and provide prearrival notification to the receiving facility.25 EMS providers should consider transporting a witness, family member, or caregiver with the patient to verify the time of onset of stroke symptoms. En route to the facility providers should support cardiopulmonary function, monitor neurologic status, and if authorized by medical control, check blood glucose. Patients with acute stroke are at risk for respiratory compromise from aspiration, upper airway obstruction, hypoventilation, and (rarely) neurogenic pulmonary edema. The combination of poor perfusion and hypoxemia will exacerbate and extend ischemic brain injury, and it has been associated with worse outcome from stroke.38 Although one small randomized clinical trial (LOE 2)39 of selected stroke patients suggested a transient improvement in clinical deficit and MRI abnormalities following 8 hours of high-flow supplementary oxygen (by face mask), a larger quasirandomized trial (LOE 3)40 did not show any clinical benefit from routine administration of low-flow (3 L/min) oxygen for 24 hours to all patients with ischemic stroke. In contrast, the administration of supplementary oxygen to the subset of stroke patients who are hypoxemic is indirectly supported by several studies showing improved functional outcomes and survival of stroke patients treated in dedicated stroke units in which higher supplementary oxygen concentrations were used (LOE 7).38,39,41,42 Both out-of-hospital and in-hospital medical personnel should administer supplementary oxygen to hypoxemic (ie, oxygen saturation 92%) stroke patients (Class I) or those with unknown oxygen saturation. Clinicians may consider giving oxygen to patients who are not hypoxemic (Class IIb). The role of stroke centers and stroke units continues to be debated.43 Initial evidence44 –50 indicated a favorable benefit from triage of stroke patients directly to designated stroke centers (Class IIb), but the concept of routine out-of-hospital triage of stroke patients requires more rigorous evaluation. Each receiving hospital should define its capability for treating patients with acute stroke and should communicate this information to the EMS system and the community. Although not every hospital is capable of organizing the necessary resources to safely administer fibrinolytic therapy, every hospital with an ED should have a written plan describing how patients with acute stroke are to be managed in that institution. The plan should detail the roles of healthcare professionals in the care of patients with acute stroke and define which patients will be treated with fibrinolytic therapy at that facility and when transfer to another hospital with a dedicated stroke unit is appropriate (Class IIa). Multiple randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses in adults (LOE 1)51–54 document consistent improvement in 1-year survival rate, functional outcomes, and quality of life when patients hospitalized with acute stroke are cared for in a dedicated stroke unit by a multidisciplinary team experienced in managing stroke. Although the studies reported were conducted outside the United States in in-hospital units that provided both acute care and rehabilitation, the improved outcomes were apparent very early in the stroke care. These results should be relevant to the outcome of dedicated stroke units staffed with experienced multidisciplinary teams in the United States. When such a facility is available within a reasonable transport interval, stroke patients who require hospitalization should be admitted there (Class I). TABLE 1. The Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale Facial Droop (have patient show teeth or smile): ● Normal— both sides of face move equally ● Abnormal— one side of face does not move as well as the other side Left: normal. Right: stroke patient with facial droop (right side of face). Kothari R, et al. Acad Emerg Med. 1997;4:986 –990. Arm Drift (patient closes eyes and holds both arms straight out for 10 seconds): ● Normal— both arms move the same or both arms do not move at all (other findings, such as pronator drift, may be helpful) ● Abnormal— one arm does not move or one arm drifts down compared with the other Abnormal Speech (have the patient say “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”): ● Normal—patient uses correct words with no slurring ● Abnormal—patient slurs words, uses the wrong words, or is unable to speak Interpretation: If any 1 of these 3 signs is abnormal, the probability of a stroke is 72%. Part 9: Adult Stroke IV-113
IV-14 Circulation December 13. 2005 TABLE 2. Los Angeles Prehospital Stroke Screen(LAPSS) For evaluation of acute, noncomatose, nontraumatic neurologic complaint If items 1 through 6 are all checked "Yes"(or " Unknown"), provide prearrival notification to hospital of potential stroke patient. If any item is checked"No retum to appropriate treatment protocol Interpretation: 93% of patients with stroke will have a positive LAPSS score(sensitivity=93%), and 97%of those with a positive LAPSS score will have a stroke(specificity =97%). Note that the patient may still be experiencing a stroke if LAPSS criteria Criteria Unknown 1. Age >45 years 2. History of seizures or epilepsy absent 3. Symptom duration <24 hours 4. At baseline, patient is not wheelchair bound or bedridden 5. Blood glucose between 60 and 400 口口口口口口 口口口口口口 6. Obvious asymmetry ( right vs left) in any of the following 3 exam categories Equal R Weak L Weak Facial smile/grimace 口 Droop 口口口 口 Weak grip 口 Weak grip 口 No grip 口 No grip Arm strength □ Drifts down 口 Drifts down 口 Falls rapidly 口 Falls rapidly One-sided motor weakness(night arm) dwell CS, Saver儿L, ert GB, Eckstein M, Starkman S Design and retrospective analysis of the Los Angeles prehospital stroke screen(LAPSS). Prehosp Emerg Care.1998;2:267-273 Kidwell CS, Starkman S, Eckstein M, Weems K, Saver JL. Identifying stroke in the field: prospective validation of the Los Angeles Prehospital Stroke Screen(LAPSS) Stke.200031:71-76 In-Hospital Care assessment and support of airway, breathing, and circulation Initial ED Assessment and Stabilization, delay to and evaluation of baseline vital signs. We recommend that Protocols should be used in the ed to minimi definitive diagnosis and therapy 28 As a goal, ED personnel providers administer oxygen to hypoxemic patients in the ED should assess the patient with suspected stroke within 10( Class I)and consider oxygen administration for patients minutes of arrival in the ED(Box 3). General care includes without hypoxemia( Class IIb)
In-Hospital Care Initial ED Assessment and Stabilization Protocols should be used in the ED to minimize delay to definitive diagnosis and therapy.28 As a goal, ED personnel should assess the patient with suspected stroke within 10 minutes of arrival in the ED (Box 3). General care includes assessment and support of airway, breathing, and circulation and evaluation of baseline vital signs. We recommend that providers administer oxygen to hypoxemic patients in the ED (Class I) and consider oxygen administration for patients without hypoxemia (Class IIb). TABLE 2. Los Angeles Prehospital Stroke Screen (LAPSS) For evaluation of acute, noncomatose, nontraumatic neurologic complaint. If items 1 through 6 are all checked “Yes” (or “Unknown”), provide prearrival notification to hospital of potential stroke patient. If any item is checked “No,” return to appropriate treatment protocol. Interpretation: 93% of patients with stroke will have a positive LAPSS score (sensitivity93%), and 97% of those with a positive LAPSS score will have a stroke (specificity97%). Note that the patient may still be experiencing a stroke if LAPSS criteria are not met. Criteria Yes Unknown No 1. Age 45 years 2. History of seizures or epilepsy absent 3. Symptom duration 24 hours 4. At baseline, patient is not wheelchair bound or bedridden 5. Blood glucose between 60 and 400 6. Obvious asymmetry (right vs left) in any of the following 3 exam categories (must be unilateral): Equal R Weak L Weak Facial smile/grimace Droop Droop Grip Weak grip No grip Weak grip No grip Arm strength Drifts down Falls rapidly Drifts down Falls rapidly One-sided motor weakness (right arm). Kidwell CS, Saver JL, Schubert GB, Eckstein M, Starkman S. Design and retrospective analysis of the Los Angeles prehospital stroke screen (LAPSS). Prehosp Emerg Care. 1998;2:267–273. Kidwell CS, Starkman S, Eckstein M, Weems K, Saver JL. Identifying stroke in the field: prospective validation of the Los Angeles Prehospital Stroke Screen (LAPSS). Stroke. 2000;31:71–76. IV-114 Circulation December 13, 2005
Part 9: Adult Stroke / V-115 Establish or confirm intravenous (Iv) access and obtain rectally or orally after the patient is screened for dysphagia blood samples for baseline studies(blood count, coagulation (see below). Admit the patient to a stroke unit (if available) studies, blood glucose, etc). Promptly treat hypoglycen for careful monitoring(Box 11). Although the aspirin is not a The ED physician should perform a neurologic screening time-critical intervention, it is appropriate to administer assessment, order an emergent computerized tomography aspirin in the ED if the patient is not a candidate for (CT) scan of the brain, and activate the stroke team or arrange fibrinolysis consultation with a stroke expert. A 12-lead ECG does not take priority over the CT scan, but Fibrinolytic Therapy(Boxes 6,8, and 10) may identify a recent acute myocardial infarction or If the Ct scan shows no hemorrhage, the probability of acute arrhythmias(eg, atrial fibrillation)as the cause of an embolic ischemic stroke remains. The physician should review the stroke. If the patient is hemodynamically stable, treatment of inclusion and exclusion criteria for I fibrinolytic therapy other arrhythmias, including bradycardia, premature atrial or (Table 3)and perform a repeat neurologic examination ventricular contractions, or defects or blocks in atrioventric-(incorporating the NIH Stroke Scale or Canadian Neurologic ular conduction, may not be necessary. ss There is general Scale). If the patient's neurologic signs are spontaneously greement to recommend cardiac monitoring during the clearing(ie, function is rapidly improving toward normal) itial evaluation of patients with acute ischemic stroke to and is near baseline, fibrinolytic administration is not recom- detect atrial fibrillation and potentially life-threatening mended ( Box 6). 0 arrhythmias. 10 As with all medications, fibrinolytics have potential ad- verse effects. The physician must verify that there are no Assessment exclusion criteria. consider the risks and benefits to the The stroke team, another expert, or an emergency physician patient, and be prepared to monitor and treat any potential with access to remote stroke expert support will review the complications. The major complication of Iv tPA for stroke patient history and verify time of onset of symptoms(Box is symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. This complication 4).56-58 This may require interviewing out-of-hospital provid- occurred in 6.4% of the 312 patients treated in the NINDS ers, witnesses, and family members to establish the time that trials and 4.6% of the 1 135 patients treated in 60 Canadian the patient was last known to be normal. Neurologic assess- centers. 6l A meta-analysis of 15 published case series on the ment is performed incorporating either the National Institutes open-label use of tPA for acute ischemic stroke in general of Health(NIH) Stroke Scale or Canadian Neurologic Scale clinical practice shows a symptomatic hemorrhage rate of (seetheAsawebsitewww.strokeassociation.org) 5.2% of 2639 patients treated. 62 Other complications include Management of hypertension in the stroke patient is orolingual angioedema(occurs in about 1.5% of patients however,control of blood pressure is required to reduce the prospective registry, major systemic bleeding. In one large acute hypotension, and systemic blee ential risk of a patient who is otherwise (0.4%)and usually occurred at the site of femoral groin eligible for treatment with tissue plasminogen activator(tPA) puncture for acute angiography. 61. 63 has elevated blood pressure, providers can try to lower it to a If the patient remains a candidate for fibrinolytic therapy systolic pressure of 185 mm Hg begin the stroke pathway of care (see below). Neither or diastolic blood pressure >110 mm Hg) cannot be treated anticoagulants nor antiplatelet treatment is administered for with Iv tPA ( Table 4). 9.10 24 hours after administration of tPA, typically until a deally the CT scan should be completed within 25 minutes follow-up CT scan at 24 hours shows no hemorrhage of the patient 's arrival in the ED and should be read within 45 Several studies(LOE 1)5, 12.6 have documented a higher tes of ED arrival (Box 5). Emergent CT or magnet likelihood of good to excellent functional outcome when resonance imaging (MRI) scans of patients with suspected tPA is administered to adult patients with acute ischemic stroke should be promptly evaluated by a physician with stroke within 3 hours of onset of symptoms. These results expertise in interpretation of these studies. 9,560 During the are obtained when tPA is administered by physicians in first few hours of an ischemic stroke, the noncontrast CT scan hospitals with a stroke protocol that rigorously adheres to may not indicate signs of brain ischemia. If the CT scan the eligibility criteria and therapeutic regimen of the shows no evidence of hemorrhage, the patient may be NINDS protocol. These results have been supported by candidate for fibrinolytic therapy(Boxes 6 and 8) subsequent 1-year follow-up, 64 reanalysis of the NINDS If hemorrhage is noted on the CT scan, the patient is not a data, 5 and a meta-analysis(LOE 1).66 Evidence from candidate for fibrinolytic therapy. Consult a neurologist or prospective, randomized(LOE 1). 2. 65. 67 studies in adults neurosurgeon and consider transfer as needed for appropriate also documents a greater likelihood of benefit the earlier care(Box 7) treatment is begun. Many physicians have emphasized the If hemorrhage is not present on the initial CT scan an patient is not a candidate for fibrinolytic therapy for reasons, consider administration of aspirin(Box 9) her flaws in the NINDS trials. 68, 69 But additional analyses of the original NINDS data by an independent group of investigators confirmed the validity of the results, 6.5 veri
Establish or confirm intravenous (IV) access and obtain blood samples for baseline studies (blood count, coagulation studies, blood glucose, etc). Promptly treat hypoglycemia. The ED physician should perform a neurologic screening assessment, order an emergent computerized tomography (CT) scan of the brain, and activate the stroke team or arrange consultation with a stroke expert. A 12-lead ECG does not take priority over the CT scan, but it may identify a recent acute myocardial infarction or arrhythmias (eg, atrial fibrillation) as the cause of an embolic stroke. If the patient is hemodynamically stable, treatment of other arrhythmias, including bradycardia, premature atrial or ventricular contractions, or defects or blocks in atrioventricular conduction, may not be necessary.55 There is general agreement to recommend cardiac monitoring during the initial evaluation of patients with acute ischemic stroke to detect atrial fibrillation and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.10 Assessment The stroke team, another expert, or an emergency physician with access to remote stroke expert support will review the patient history and verify time of onset of symptoms (Box 4).56 –58 This may require interviewing out-of-hospital providers, witnesses, and family members to establish the time that the patient was last known to be normal. Neurologic assessment is performed incorporating either the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Stroke Scale or Canadian Neurologic Scale (see the ASA website: www.strokeassociation.org). Management of hypertension in the stroke patient is controversial. For patients eligible for fibrinolytic therapy, however, control of blood pressure is required to reduce the potential risk of bleeding. If a patient who is otherwise eligible for treatment with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) has elevated blood pressure, providers can try to lower it to a systolic pressure of 185 mm Hg and a diastolic blood pressure of 110 mm Hg. Because the maximum interval from onset of stroke until effective treatment of stroke with tPA is limited, most patients with sustained hypertension above these levels (ie, systolic blood pressure 185 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure 110 mm Hg) cannot be treated with IV tPA (Table 4).9,10 Ideally the CT scan should be completed within 25 minutes of the patient’s arrival in the ED and should be read within 45 minutes of ED arrival (Box 5). Emergent CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of patients with suspected stroke should be promptly evaluated by a physician with expertise in interpretation of these studies.59,60 During the first few hours of an ischemic stroke, the noncontrast CT scan may not indicate signs of brain ischemia. If the CT scan shows no evidence of hemorrhage, the patient may be a candidate for fibrinolytic therapy (Boxes 6 and 8). If hemorrhage is noted on the CT scan, the patient is not a candidate for fibrinolytic therapy. Consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon and consider transfer as needed for appropriate care (Box 7). If hemorrhage is not present on the initial CT scan and the patient is not a candidate for fibrinolytic therapy for other reasons, consider administration of aspirin (Box 9) either rectally or orally after the patient is screened for dysphagia (see below). Admit the patient to a stroke unit (if available) for careful monitoring (Box 11). Although the aspirin is not a time-critical intervention, it is appropriate to administer aspirin in the ED if the patient is not a candidate for fibrinolysis. Fibrinolytic Therapy (Boxes 6, 8, and 10) If the CT scan shows no hemorrhage, the probability of acute ischemic stroke remains. The physician should review the inclusion and exclusion criteria for IV fibrinolytic therapy (Table 3) and perform a repeat neurologic examination (incorporating the NIH Stroke Scale or Canadian Neurologic Scale). If the patient’s neurologic signs are spontaneously clearing (ie, function is rapidly improving toward normal) and is near baseline, fibrinolytic administration is not recommended (Box 6).10 As with all medications, fibrinolytics have potential adverse effects. The physician must verify that there are no exclusion criteria, consider the risks and benefits to the patient, and be prepared to monitor and treat any potential complications. The major complication of IV tPA for stroke is symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. This complication occurred in 6.4% of the 312 patients treated in the NINDS trials5 and 4.6% of the 1135 patients treated in 60 Canadian centers.61 A meta-analysis of 15 published case series on the open-label use of tPA for acute ischemic stroke in general clinical practice shows a symptomatic hemorrhage rate of 5.2% of 2639 patients treated.62 Other complications include orolingual angioedema (occurs in about 1.5% of patients), acute hypotension, and systemic bleeding. In one large prospective registry, major systemic bleeding was uncommon (0.4%) and usually occurred at the site of femoral groin puncture for acute angiography.61,63 If the patient remains a candidate for fibrinolytic therapy (Box 8), the physician should discuss the risks and potential benefits of the therapy with the patient or family if available (Box 10). After this discussion, if the patient/family elects to proceed with fibrinolytic therapy, give the patient tPA and begin the stroke pathway of care (see below). Neither anticoagulants nor antiplatelet treatment is administered for 24 hours after administration of tPA, typically until a follow-up CT scan at 24 hours shows no hemorrhage. Several studies (LOE 1)5,12,61 have documented a higher likelihood of good to excellent functional outcome when tPA is administered to adult patients with acute ischemic stroke within 3 hours of onset of symptoms. These results are obtained when tPA is administered by physicians in hospitals with a stroke protocol that rigorously adheres to the eligibility criteria and therapeutic regimen of the NINDS protocol. These results have been supported by subsequent 1-year follow-up,64 reanalysis of the NINDS data,65 and a meta-analysis (LOE 1).66 Evidence from prospective, randomized (LOE 1)5,12,65,67 studies in adults also documents a greater likelihood of benefit the earlier treatment is begun. Many physicians have emphasized the flaws in the NINDS trials.68,69 But additional analyses of the original NINDS data by an independent group of investigators confirmed the validity of the results,65 veriPart 9: Adult Stroke IV-115
IV- 16 Circulation December 13. 2005 TABLE 3. Fibrinolytic Checklist Use of tPA in Patients with Acute ischemic stroke All boxes must be checked before tpA can be given. Note: The following checklist includes FDA-approved indications and contraindications for tPA administration for acute ischemic stroke. A physician with xpertise in acute stroke care may modify this list. Inclusion Criteria (all Yes boxes in this section must be checked 口Age18 years or older? B Clinical diagnosis of ischemic stroke with a measurable neurologic deficit? B Time of symptom onset (when patient was last seen normal) well established as 185 mm Hg or diastolic pressure remains >110 mm Hg despite repeated measurements? a Known arteriovenous malformation, neoplasm, or aneurysm? a Witnessed seizure at stroke onset? B Active internal bleeding or acute trauma(fracture)? J Acute bleeding diathesis, including but not limited to -Platelet count 1.7 or prothrombin time(Pn)>15 seconds?* B Within 3 months of intracranial or intraspinal surgery, serious head trauma, or previous stroke? Relative Contraindications/Precautions experience suggests that under some circumstances--with careful consideration and weighing of risk-to-benefit ratio--patients may receive fibrinolytic despite one or more relative contraindications. Consider the pros and cons of tPa administration carefully if any of these relative contraindications is e Only minor or rapidly improving stroke symptoms (clearing spontaneously) Within 14 days of major surgery or serious trauma Recent gastrointestinal or urinary tract hemorrhage(within previous 21 days) Recent acute myocardial infarction(within previous 3 months) e Postmyocardial infarction pericarditis Abnormal blood glucose level (400 mg/dL[22.2 mmoVLD o In patients without recent use of oral anticoagulants or heparin, treatment with tpa can be initiated before availability of coagulation study results but should be scontinued if the INR is >1.7 or the partial thromboplastin time is elevated by local laboratory standards fying that improved outcomes in the tPA treatment arm dence to avoid all delays and treat patients as soon as persist even when imbalances in the baseline stroke possible. Failure to adhere to protocol is associated with an severity among treatment groups is corrected. 70 increased rate of complications, particularly the risk of Administration of Iv tPA to patients with acute ischemic symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. 71.73 stroke who meet the NINDs eligibility criteria is recom- Community hospitals have reported outc mended if tPA is administered by physicians in the setting of to the results of the NINDS trials after implementing a stroke a clearly defined protocol, a knowledgeable team, and insti- program with a focus on quality improvement. 61, 74,75 The tutional commitment( Class D). It is important to note that the experience of the Cleveland Clinic system is instructive. 71.75 superior outcomes reported in both community and tertiary A quality improvement program increased compliance with care hospitals in the NINds trials have been difficult to the tPA treatment protocol in 9 community hospitals, and the replicate in hospitals with less experience in, and institutional rate of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage fell from commitment to, acute stroke care. 71, 72 There is strong evi- 13. 4% to 6.4%.75
fying that improved outcomes in the tPA treatment arm persist even when imbalances in the baseline stroke severity among treatment groups is corrected.70 Administration of IV tPA to patients with acute ischemic stroke who meet the NINDS eligibility criteria is recommended if tPA is administered by physicians in the setting of a clearly defined protocol, a knowledgeable team, and institutional commitment (Class I). It is important to note that the superior outcomes reported in both community and tertiary care hospitals in the NINDS trials have been difficult to replicate in hospitals with less experience in, and institutional commitment to, acute stroke care.71,72 There is strong evidence to avoid all delays and treat patients as soon as possible. Failure to adhere to protocol is associated with an increased rate of complications, particularly the risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage.71,73 Community hospitals have reported outcomes comparable to the results of the NINDS trials after implementing a stroke program with a focus on quality improvement.61,74,75 The experience of the Cleveland Clinic system is instructive.71,75 A quality improvement program increased compliance with the tPA treatment protocol in 9 community hospitals, and the rate of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage fell from 13.4% to 6.4%.75 TABLE 3. Fibrinolytic Checklist Use of tPA in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke All boxes must be checked before tPA can be given. Note: The following checklist includes FDA-approved indications and contraindications for tPA administration for acute ischemic stroke. A physician with expertise in acute stroke care may modify this list. Inclusion Criteria (all Yes boxes in this section must be checked): Yes Age 18 years or older? Clinical diagnosis of ischemic stroke with a measurable neurologic deficit? Time of symptom onset (when patient was last seen normal) well established as 180 minutes (3 hours) before treatment would begin? Exclusion Criteria (all No boxes in “Contraindications” section must be checked): Contraindications: No Evidence of intracranial hemorrhage on pretreatment noncontrast head CT? Clinical presentation suggestive of subarachnoid hemorrhage even with normal CT? CT shows multilobar infarction (hypodensity greater than one third cerebral hemisphere)? History of intracranial hemorrhage? Uncontrolled hypertension: At the time treatment should begin, systolic pressure remains 185 mm Hg or diastolic pressure remains 110 mm Hg despite repeated measurements? Known arteriovenous malformation, neoplasm, or aneurysm? Witnessed seizure at stroke onset? Active internal bleeding or acute trauma (fracture)? Acute bleeding diathesis, including but not limited to —Platelet count 100 000/mm3 ? —Heparin received within 48 hours, resulting in an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) that is greater than upper limit of normal for laboratory? —Current use of anticoagulant (eg, warfarin sodium) that has produced an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) 1.7 or prothrombin time (PT) 15 seconds?* Within 3 months of intracranial or intraspinal surgery, serious head trauma, or previous stroke? Arterial puncture at a noncompressible site within past 7 days? Relative Contraindications/Precautions: Recent experience suggests that under some circumstances—with careful consideration and weighing of risk-to-benefit ratio—patients may receive fibrinolytic therapy despite one or more relative contraindications. Consider the pros and cons of tPA administration carefully if any of these relative contraindications is present: ● Only minor or rapidly improving stroke symptoms (clearing spontaneously) ● Within 14 days of major surgery or serious trauma ● Recent gastrointestinal or urinary tract hemorrhage (within previous 21 days) ● Recent acute myocardial infarction (within previous 3 months) ● Postmyocardial infarction pericarditis ● Abnormal blood glucose level (50 or 400 mg/dL 2.8 or 22.2 mmol/L) *In patients without recent use of oral anticoagulants or heparin, treatment with tPA can be initiated before availability of coagulation study results but should be discontinued if the INR is 1.7 or the partial thromboplastin time is elevated by local laboratory standards. IV-116 Circulation December 13, 2005
Part 9: Adult Stroke / V-117 TABLE 4 to elevated blood Pressure in Acute ischemic Stroke Blood pressur Hg Treatment A. Not eligible for fibrinolytic therapy Systolic≤2200 R diastolic≤120 Observe unless other end-organ involvement (eg, aortic dissection, acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, hypertensive alopathy) Treat other symptoms of stroke Treat other acute complications of stroke dache, pain, agitation, nausea, vomiting) including hypoxia, increased intracranial pressure. Systolic >220 OR diastolic 121 to 140 Labetalol 10 to 20 mg I for 1 to 2 min May repeat or double every 10 min(max dose 300 mg) nicardipine 5 mg/h I infusion as initial dose; titrate to desired effect by increasing 2.5 mg/h every 5 min to max of 15 mg/h Aim for a 10% to 15% reduction in blood pressure Diastolic >140 russide 0.5 ug/kg per minute Iv infusion as initial dose with continuous blood pressure for a 10% to 15% reduction in blood pressure B. Eligible for fibrinolytic therapy Pretreatment Labetalol 10 to 20 mg I for 1 to 2 min May repeat 1 time or nitropaste 1 to 2 in During/after treatment 1. Monitor blood pressure Check blood pressure every 15 min for 2 h, then every 30 min for 6 h, and finally every hour for 2. Diastolic >140 Sodium nitroprusside 0.5 ug/kg per minute Iv infusion as initial dose and titrate to desired blood 3. Systolic >230 OR diastolic 121 to 140 abetalol 10 mg Iv for 1 to 2 min repeat or double labetalol every 10 min to maximum dose of 300 mg, or give initial labetalol se, then start labetalol drip at 2 to 8 mg/min g/h I infusion as initial dose and titrate to desired effect by increasing 2.5 mg/h ery 5 min to maximum of 15 mg/; if blood pressure is not controlled by labetalol, consider sodium nitroprusside alol 10 mg IV for 1 to 2 min May repeat or double labetalol every 10 to 20 mi ximum dose of 300 mg, or give initial labetalol dose, then start labetalol drip at 2 to 8 There is a relationship between violations of the NINDs General Stroke Care reatment protocol and increased risk of symptomatic intra- Admit the patient to a stroke unit (if available)for careful cerebral hemorrhage and death. 62 In Germany there was an observation(Box 11), including monitoring of blood pressure increased risk of death after administration of tPA for acute and neurologic status and treatment of hypertension if indicated ischemic stroke in hospitals that treated s5 patients per year, (Table 4). If the patients neurologic status deteriorates, order an which suggests that clinical experience is an important factor emergent CT scan to determine if cerebral edema or hemorrhage in ensuring adherence to protocol 63 Adding a dedicated is responsible for the deterioration and treat if possible stroke team to a community hospital can increase the number Hyperglycemia is associated with worse clinical outcom of patients with acute stroke treated with fibrinolytic therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke than is normoglyce and produce excellent clinical outcomes. 76 These findings mia, 87-94 but there is no direct evidence that active glucose show that it is important to have an institutional commitment control improves clinical outcome. 95, 96 There is evidence that to ensure optimal patient outcomes insulin treatment of hyperglycemia in other critically ill Evidence from 2 prospective randomized studies in adults patients improves survival rates(LOE 7 for stroke). 97 For this and a meta-analysis77, 78 and additional case series79-86 docu- reason administration of Iv or subcutaneous insulin may be mented improved outcome from therapies such as intra-arte- considered( Class IIb)to lower blood glucose in patients with rial tPA. Thus, for patients with acute ischemic stroke who acute ischemic stroke when the serum glucose level is ot candidates for standard IV fibrinolysis, administrat >10 mmolL (about 200 mg/dL) of intra-arterial fibrinolysis in centers that have the resources Additional stroke care includes support of the airway and expertise available may be considered within the first few oxygenation and ventilation, and nutritional support. Admin hours after the onset of symptoms( Class IIb). Intra-arterial ister approximately 75 to 100 mLh of normal saline to administration of tPA has not yet been approved by the Us maintain euvolemia if needed. Seizure prophylaxis is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended. but we recommend treatment of acute seizures
There is a relationship between violations of the NINDS treatment protocol and increased risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage and death.62 In Germany there was an increased risk of death after administration of tPA for acute ischemic stroke in hospitals that treated 5 patients per year, which suggests that clinical experience is an important factor in ensuring adherence to protocol.63 Adding a dedicated stroke team to a community hospital can increase the number of patients with acute stroke treated with fibrinolytic therapy and produce excellent clinical outcomes.76 These findings show that it is important to have an institutional commitment to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Evidence from 2 prospective randomized studies in adults and a meta-analysis77,78 and additional case series79 – 86 documented improved outcome from therapies such as intra-arterial tPA. Thus, for patients with acute ischemic stroke who are not candidates for standard IV fibrinolysis, administration of intra-arterial fibrinolysis in centers that have the resources and expertise available may be considered within the first few hours after the onset of symptoms (Class IIb). Intra-arterial administration of tPA has not yet been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). General Stroke Care Admit the patient to a stroke unit (if available) for careful observation (Box 11), including monitoring of blood pressure and neurologic status and treatment of hypertension if indicated (Table 4). If the patient’s neurologic status deteriorates, order an emergent CT scan to determine if cerebral edema or hemorrhage is responsible for the deterioration and treat if possible. Hyperglycemia is associated with worse clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke than is normoglycemia,87–94 but there is no direct evidence that active glucose control improves clinical outcome.95,96 There is evidence that insulin treatment of hyperglycemia in other critically ill patients improves survival rates (LOE 7 for stroke).97 For this reason administration of IV or subcutaneous insulin may be considered (Class IIb) to lower blood glucose in patients with acute ischemic stroke when the serum glucose level is 10 mmol/L (about 200 mg/dL). Additional stroke care includes support of the airway, oxygenation and ventilation, and nutritional support. Administer approximately 75 to 100 mL/h of normal saline to maintain euvolemia if needed. Seizure prophylaxis is not recommended, but we recommend treatment of acute seizures TABLE 4. Approach to Elevated Blood Pressure in Acute Ischemic Stroke9 Blood Pressure Level, mm Hg Treatment A. Not eligible for fibrinolytic therapy Systolic 220 OR diastolic 120 Observe unless other end-organ involvement (eg, aortic dissection, acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, hypertensive encephalopathy) Treat other symptoms of stroke (eg, headache, pain, agitation, nausea, vomiting) Treat other acute complications of stroke, including hypoxia, increased intracranial pressure, seizures, or hypoglycemia Systolic 220 OR diastolic 121 to 140 Labetalol 10 to 20 mg IV for 1 to 2 min May repeat or double every 10 min (max dose 300 mg) OR Nicardipine 5 mg/h IV infusion as initial dose; titrate to desired effect by increasing 2.5 mg/h every 5 min to max of 15 mg/h Aim for a 10% to 15% reduction in blood pressure Diastolic 140 Nitroprusside 0.5 g/kg per minute IV infusion as initial dose with continuous blood pressure monitoring Aim for a 10% to 15% reduction in blood pressure B. Eligible for fibrinolytic therapy Pretreatment Systolic 185 OR diastolic 110 Labetalol 10 to 20 mg IV for 1 to 2 min May repeat 1 time or nitropaste 1 to 2 in During/after treatment 1. Monitor blood pressure Check blood pressure every 15 min for 2 h, then every 30 min for 6 h, and finally every hour for 16 h 2. Diastolic 140 Sodium nitroprusside 0.5 g/kg per minute IV infusion as initial dose and titrate to desired blood pressure 3. Systolic 230 OR diastolic 121 to 140 Labetalol 10 mg IV for 1 to 2 min May repeat or double labetalol every 10 min to maximum dose of 300 mg, or give initial labetalol dose, then start labetalol drip at 2 to 8 mg/min OR Nicarpidine 5 mg/h IV infusion as initial dose and titrate to desired effect by increasing 2.5 mg/h every 5 min to maximum of 15 mg/h; if blood pressure is not controlled by labetalol, consider sodium nitroprusside 4. Systolic 180 to 230 OR diastolic 105 to 120 Labetalol 10 mg IV for 1 to 2 min May repeat or double labetalol every 10 to 20 min to maximum dose of 300 mg, or give initial labetalol dose, then start labetalol drip at 2 to 8 mg/min Part 9: Adult Stroke IV-117
IV-lIe Circulation December 13. 2005 followed by administration of anticonvulsants to prevent 5. Tissue gen activator for acute ischemic stroke. The National further seizures. 98 Monitor the patient for signs of increased Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke rt-PA Stroke Study Group intracranial pressure. Continued control of blood pressure is N Engl Med.1995:33:158l-1587 6. Albers Gw. Bat VE Clark required to reduce the potential risk of bleeding(see Table 4) venous tissue-type plasminogen activator for treatment of acute stroke: the All patients with stroke should be screened for dysphagia dard Treatment with Alteplase to Reverse Stroke (STARS)stu before anything is given by mouth. A simple bedside screening JAMA.2000283:1145-1150. 7. Hazinski M. D-mystifying recognition and management of stroke. Curr evaluation involves asking the patient to sip water from a cup. If Emerg Cardiac Care. 1996: 7: 8. the patient can sip and swallow without difficulty, the patient 8. Acute stroke: current treatment and paradigms. In: Cummins RO, Field JM, asked to take a large gulp of water and swallow. If there are no azinski MF, eds. ACLS: Principles and Practice. Dallas, Tex: American leart Association: 2003: 437-482 signs of coughing or aspiration after 30 seconds, then it is safe 9. Adams H, Adams R, Del Zoppo G, Goldstein LB Guidelines for the early r the patient to have a thickened diet until formally assessed by a speech pathologist. Medications may be given in applesauce or scientific statement from the stroke Council of the American Heart asso- jam. Any patient who fails a swallow test may be given ciation/American Stroke Association. Stroke. 2005: 36: 916-923 10. Adams HP Jr, Adams R, Brott T, del Zoppo GJ, Furlan A, Goldstein LB, medications such as aspirin rectally or if appropriate via the IV, Grubb RL, Higashida R. Kidwell C. Kwiatkowski TG, Marler JR. intramuscular. or subcutaneous route. Hademenos G. Guidelines for the early management of patients with chemic stroke: a scientific statement from the Stroke Council of the Temperature Control American Stroke Association. Stroke. 2003: 34: 1056-1083 Treat fever >37.5.C (99.5.F). Hyperthermia in the setting of I. Marler JR, Jones Pw, Emr M, eds Setting New Directions for Stroke Ca acute cerebral ischemia is associated with increased morbid- Proceedings of a National Symposium on Rapid Identification an Treatment of Acute Stroke. Bethesda, Md: National Institute of Neurological ity and mortality. 99-102 Disorders and Stroke: 1997 Induced hypothermia can exert neuroprotective effects fol- 12. Hacke W, Donnan G. Fieschi C, Kas on Kummer R. Broderick JP lowing stroke. 10-lII Hypothermia has been shown to improve Brott T, Frankel M, Grotta JC, Haley EC Jr, Kwiatkowski T, Levine SR, ewandowski C, Lu M, Lyden P, Marler JR, Patel S, Tilley BC. Albers G. survival and functional outcome in patients following resuscita- luhmki E, wilhelm M, Hamilton S. Association of outcome with early tion from ventricular fibrillation (VF) sudden cardiac arrest stroke treatment: pooled analysis of ATLANTIS. ECASS, and NINDS (LOE 112: LOE 2113), but it has not been shown to be effective rt-PA stroke trials. Lancet. 2004:363: 768-774 13. Barsan wG, Brott TG, Olinger CP, Adams HP Jr, Haley EC Jr, Levy DE for acute ischemic stroke in controlled human trials. In some Identification and entry of the patient with acute cerebral infarction. Ann small human pilot studies and in animal models, hypothermia Emerg Med.1988:17:l192-119 (3%C to 36C)for acute ischemic stroke has been shown to be 4. Barsan WG, Brott TG, Broderick JP, Haley EC, Levy DE, Marler JR Time of hospital presentation in patients with acute stroke. Arch Intern Med relatively safe and feasible (Loe 3 to 5). 993:153:2 effects of hypothermia on both global and focal cerebral ische- 15. Pepe PE, Zachariah BS, Sayre MR, Floccare D. Ensuring the chain of mia in animals have been promising, cooling to <33C covery for stroke in your community. Chain of Recovery Writing Group. appears to be associated with increased complications, including Prehasp Emerg Care. 1998: 2: 89-9 6. Feldmann E, Gordon N. Brooks JM, Brass LM, Fayad PB. Sawaya KL, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac failure, pneumonia, Nazareno F, Levine SR. Factors associated with early presentation of acut thrombocytopenia, and a rebound increase in intracranial pres stroke. Stroke. 1993- 24: 1805-1810 sure during rewarming. 04, 105, 07, 08, 11 17. Lyden P, Rapp k, Babcock T, et al. Ultra-rapid identification, triage, and enrollment of stroke patients into clinical trials. J Stroke Cerebrovasc D Ongoing larger clinical trials of induced hypothermia wi 9942:106-13 likely increase our understanding of the role of hypothermia 8. Morgenstern LB. Staub L Chan W. Wein TH. Bartholomew LK. acute cerebral ischemia. There is insufficient scientific evidence RA, Burgin wS, Groff J, Hickenbottom SL, Saldin K. AM, Kalra A, Dhingra A, Grotta JC. Improving delivery of ac to recommend for or against the use of hypothermia in the herapy: the TLL Temple Foundation Stroke Project. Stroke treatment of acute ischemic stroke( Class Indeterminate) 19. Morgenstern LB, Bartholomew LK, Grotta JC, Staub L, King M, Chan W Summary Sustained benefit of a community and professional intervention to increase acute stroke therapy. Arch Intern Med. 2003: 163: 2198-2202 ances in oke care will have the greatest effect on stroke 20. Cocho D, Belvis R, Marti-Fabregas j. Molina-Porcel L Diaz-Manera J outcome if care is delivered within a system designed to Aleu A, Pagonabarraga J, Garcia-Bargo D, Mauri A, Marti-Vilalta JL improve both efficiency and effectiveness. The ultimate goal Reasons for exclusion from thrombolytic therapy following acute ischemic roke. Neurology. 2005: 64: 719-720 of stroke therapy is to maximize functional recovery 21. Prioritizing interventions to improve rates of thrombolysis for ischemic stroke. Neurology. 2005: 64: 654-659 References ED. Furlan AJ. Abou-Chebl A Nadam DM. Utilization of tissue plasminogen activator for ac 1. Know the Facts. Get the Stats. Our Guide to Heart Disease. Stroke and chemic stroke. Arch Neuro/. 2004: 61: 346-350 Risks. Dallas. Tex: American Heart Association: 2002 Publication No 23. Kleindorfer D, Kissela B, Schneider A, Woo D, Khoury J, Miller R, Alwell 55-05762002-04. K, Gebel J, Szaflarski J. Pancioli A, Jauch E, Moomaw C, Shukla R 2. Armerican Heart Association. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2006 roderick JP. Eligibility for recombinant tissue plasminogen Ite. Dallas, Tex: American Heart Association. In press. cute ischemic stroke: a population-based study. Stroke. 2004; 35: e27-e29 3. Schwamm LH, Pancioli A. Acker JE Ill Goldstein LB, Zorowitz RD 24. OConnor R, McGraw P, Edelsohn L. Thrombolytic therapy for acut nephard TJ, Moyer P, Gorman M, Johnston SC, Duncan PW, Gorelick P, chemic stroke ty of patients remain ineligible for rank J, Stranne SK, Smith R, Federspiel w.Horton KB, Magnis E, Adams ment. Ann Emerg Med. 1999: 33 9-I J. Recommendations for the establishment of stroke systems of can entification and recommendations from the American Stroke Association's Task Force treatment. In: Marler JR, Jones PW, Emr M, eds Setting New Directions fo he Development of Stroke Systems. Circulation. 2005: 111: 1078-1091 Stroke Care Proceedings of a National Symposium on Rapid Identification 4. Dobkin BH. Clinical practice: rehabilitation after stroke. N Engl J Med. and Treatment of Acute Stroke. Bethesda, Md: National Institute of Neuro- 2005:352:1677-1684 logical Disorders and Stroke: 1997: 35-44
followed by administration of anticonvulsants to prevent further seizures.98 Monitor the patient for signs of increased intracranial pressure. Continued control of blood pressure is required to reduce the potential risk of bleeding (see Table 4). All patients with stroke should be screened for dysphagia before anything is given by mouth. A simple bedside screening evaluation involves asking the patient to sip water from a cup. If the patient can sip and swallow without difficulty, the patient is asked to take a large gulp of water and swallow. If there are no signs of coughing or aspiration after 30 seconds, then it is safe for the patient to have a thickened diet until formally assessed by a speech pathologist. Medications may be given in applesauce or jam. Any patient who fails a swallow test may be given medications such as aspirin rectally or if appropriate via the IV, intramuscular, or subcutaneous route. Temperature Control Treat fever 37.5°C (99.5°F). Hyperthermia in the setting of acute cerebral ischemia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality.99 –102 Induced hypothermia can exert neuroprotective effects following stroke.103–111 Hypothermia has been shown to improve survival and functional outcome in patients following resuscitation from ventricular fibrillation (VF) sudden cardiac arrest (LOE 1112; LOE 2113), but it has not been shown to be effective for acute ischemic stroke in controlled human trials. In some small human pilot studies and in animal models, hypothermia (33°C to 36°C) for acute ischemic stroke has been shown to be relatively safe and feasible (LOE 3 to 5).106,109,110 Although effects of hypothermia on both global and focal cerebral ischemia in animals have been promising,111 cooling to 33°C appears to be associated with increased complications, including hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac failure, pneumonia, thrombocytopenia, and a rebound increase in intracranial pressure during rewarming.104,105,107,108,111 Ongoing larger clinical trials of induced hypothermia will likely increase our understanding of the role of hypothermia in acute cerebral ischemia. There is insufficient scientific evidence to recommend for or against the use of hypothermia in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (Class Indeterminate). Summary Advances in stroke care will have the greatest effect on stroke outcome if care is delivered within a system designed to improve both efficiency and effectiveness. The ultimate goal of stroke therapy is to maximize functional recovery. References 1. Know the Facts, Get the Stats: Our Guide to Heart Disease, Stroke and Risks. Dallas, Tex: American Heart Association; 2002. Publication No. 55-0576 2002-04. 2. American Heart Association. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2006 Update. Dallas, Tex: American Heart Association. In press. 3. Schwamm LH, Pancioli A, Acker JE III, Goldstein LB, Zorowitz RD, Shephard TJ, Moyer P, Gorman M, Johnston SC, Duncan PW, Gorelick P, Frank J, Stranne SK, Smith R, Federspiel W, Horton KB, Magnis E, Adams RJ. Recommendations for the establishment of stroke systems of care: recommendations from the American Stroke Association’s Task Force on the Development of Stroke Systems. Circulation. 2005;111:1078 –1091. 4. Dobkin BH. Clinical practice: rehabilitation after stroke. N Engl J Med. 2005;352:1677–1684. 5. Tissue plasminogen activator for acute ischemic stroke. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke rt-PA Stroke Study Group. N Engl J Med. 1995;333:1581–1587. 6. Albers GW, Bates VE, Clark WM, Bell R, Verro P, Hamilton SA. Intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator for treatment of acute stroke: the Standard Treatment with Alteplase to Reverse Stroke (STARS) study. JAMA. 2000;283:1145–1150. 7. Hazinski M. D-mystifying recognition and management of stroke. Curr Emerg Cardiac Care. 1996;7:8. 8. Acute stroke: current treatment and paradigms. In: Cummins RO, Field JM, Hazinski MF, eds. ACLS: Principles and Practice. Dallas, Tex: American Heart Association; 2003:437– 482. 9. Adams H, Adams R, Del Zoppo G, Goldstein LB. 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