Background:
Patients and families have unique learning needs throughout the stroke care continuum. There is consistency in topics that are pertinent at each stage of recovery. Previous efforts to standardize the process for the provision of stroke education within the acute stroke unit have not been sustained.  This prompted the question: How do we ensure that patients consistently get the education they need, at the right time in their stroke trajectory?

Methods
A literature review, an environmental scan, and audit of education documentation were used to define the problem.  Process mapping was used to describe the current state and identify variation in providing education.  Standardization and documentation of education provided were identified as key areas for improvement.  Surveys were conducted pre and post process change to assess 1) Patient experience related to education 2) Knowledge uptake and 3) Staff perceptions about the process. Chart audits were conducted pre and post to assess documentation compliance. 

Results
Baseline staff surveys and chart audits have been completed. Of staff surveyed, 93% reported providing stroke-specific education to their patients focusing on: Orientation to the Stroke Program (62.5%), general stroke information (56.25%) and medications (50%). Chart audits revealed that 78.5% had documented orientation to the program, and 0% had documentation of education related to type of stroke, stroke prevention or transition planning. 

Conclusion
Based on the literature and best practice, we are aiming to improve the patient experience and ultimately the uptake of relevant stroke education by standardizing the process of how education is provided.

STANDARDIZING THE APPROACH TO PATIENT AND FAMILY EDUCATION ON THE ACUTE STROKE UNIT