From the Guidelines
The median length of stay for inpatient rehabilitation after a stroke is 31 days, with a median total admission Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score of 74 points, and patients gaining a median of 21 points on the FIM during their stay 1. When considering the hospitalization period due to stroke complications in the first 3 months, it's essential to note that the length of stay and services required depend on the individual and their needs, as well as the resources available within the particular setting.
- The median length of stay for inpatient rehabilitation is a key indicator of the hospitalization period, and according to the Canadian stroke best practice recommendations, it is 31 days 1.
- Patients arrive at inpatient rehabilitation in a median of 12 days from stroke onset, and almost 90% of patients are discharged having met their rehabilitation goals, with 71% returning directly home 1.
- The field of research in stroke rehabilitation is very active, and new evidence continues to emerge, which may impact the length of hospitalization and rehabilitation outcomes 1.
- Early rehabilitation and proper medication management can significantly reduce the need for rehospitalization, and the trend in stroke care has been moving toward shorter initial hospitalizations with more comprehensive outpatient and rehabilitation services 1.
From the Research
Hospitalization Duration After Stroke
- The duration of hospitalization after a stroke can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the stroke, the presence of complications, and the patient's overall health.
- According to a study published in 1996 2, complications after acute stroke are common, occurring in 59% of patients, and can include falls, skin breaks, urinary tract infections, chest infections, and depression.
- The study found that the most common individual complications were falls (22%), skin breaks (18%), and urinary tract (16%) or chest (12%) infections.
- Another study published in 2010 3 highlights the importance of managing complications after stroke, as they can have a substantial effect on the final outcome of patients with stroke and often impede neurological recovery.
Complications in the First 3 Months
- A study published in 2021 4 notes that dual antiplatelet therapy has a benefit in the first three weeks after stroke, but patients should change to a single antiplatelet drug after this time.
- The same study recommends that patients be started on statins after an ischemic stroke, with high doses recommended even if cholesterol concentrations are normal.
- Antihypertensive drugs are also recommended for all patients with systolic blood pressures greater than 140/90 mmHg.
- However, none of the studies provide specific information on the average duration of hospitalization after a stroke due to stroke complications in the first 3 months.