Understanding Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death worldwide, demanding swift clinical recognition and evidence-based intervention. Understanding Stroke offers healthcare professionals a comprehensive overview of stroke pathophysiology, early warning signs, diagnostic approaches, and current standards of acute and post-acute management across care settings.

This course is designed to deepen the clinical understanding of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke presentations, with an emphasis on identifying symptoms, performing timely assessments, and initiating appropriate referrals or emergency responses. Participants will explore stroke risk factors, preventive strategies, pharmacologic interventions, and the importance of post-stroke rehabilitation. Clinical scenarios and assessment tools such as the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) are reviewed to enhance real-time decision-making and communication within interdisciplinary teams.

Topics covered include:

• Stroke Overview and Classification: Differentiating between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, including transient ischemic attacks (TIAs).
• Risk Factors and Pathophysiology: Understanding the modifiable and non-modifiable factors that contribute to cerebrovascular events.
• Recognizing Signs and Symptoms: Sudden onset of neurological deficits, facial drooping, speech difficulty, and limb weakness.
• Initial Assessment and Diagnostic Protocols: Use of NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS), CT/MRI imaging, and emergency stroke alert systems.
• Acute Stroke Management: Administration of thrombolytics, endovascular procedures, and stabilization protocols.
• Secondary Prevention: Antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies, blood pressure control, diabetes management, and lifestyle modifications.
• Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: The role of physical, occupational, and speech therapy in maximizing recovery and preventing complications.
• Patient and Family Education: Communicating effectively about stroke warning signs, recovery expectations, and community support resources.

Completion Requirements:

To receive full CE credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Complete all course content.
• Score 70% or higher on the post-test.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Downloadable resources such as stroke assessment scales and emergency response algorithms may be included for clinical use.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: No relevant financial relationships have been disclosed by the course planners or authors.
• Commercial Support: This course is independently developed and has not received commercial sponsorship.
• Non-Endorsement: Accreditation does not imply endorsement of any commercial entities or products.
• Off-Label Product Use: This course does not address off-label use of medications or devices.