A Nurse Guide to Managing the Stroke Patient

This course delivers evidence-based education focused on both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, with emphasis on timely identification of stroke symptoms, pre-hospital triage, emergency care protocols, and neurological assessment tools such as the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Learners will gain essential knowledge of pharmacologic interventions such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants, and understand the importance of time-to-treatment in minimizing brain injury.

Beyond acute management, the course explores critical elements of stroke recovery, including multidisciplinary rehabilitation planning, prevention of stroke-related complications, and strategies for secondary stroke prevention. Topics such as managing dysphagia, mobility limitations, cognitive changes, and emotional well-being are addressed to guide nurses in delivering holistic care.

The course also includes instruction on patient and caregiver education, discharge planning, community reintegration, and the role of the nurse in promoting adherence to lifestyle modifications and follow-up care.

Designed to meet the real-world demands of busy healthcare professionals, this self-paced online course offers a practical yet comprehensive approach to stroke care. Whether you work in emergency medicine, neurology, critical care, or rehabilitation, this program will equip you with actionable insights and up-to-date clinical strategies.

Upon completion, participants will reinforce their clinical acumen, contribute to improved patient outcomes, and earn 1 CE Credit Hour automatically reported to CE Broker in participating states to meet continuing education requirements.

This course covers: 

• Stroke Pathophysiology: Understanding cerebrovascular events and their systemic effects.
• Acute Management Strategies: Includes thrombolysis, blood pressure control, and intracranial pressure management.
• Post-Stroke Complications: Covers dysphagia, cognitive deficits, and mobility challenges.
• Psychosocial Considerations: Discusses patient-family communication, emotional recovery, and caregiver support.
• Nursing Implications: Focuses on assessment, patient education, interdisciplinary coordination, and ethical care planning.

Completion Requirements:

To receive full CE credit, participants must:

• Register for the activity.
• Review all course materials.
• Achieve 70% or higher on the post-test.
• Complete the evaluation survey.

Additional elements, such as discussion boards or practice exercises, may apply to some courses.

Important Disclosures:

• No conflicts of interest were disclosed by planners or authors.
• This course is not commercially sponsored.
• No off-label uses of medications are discussed.