Implementing Target Stroke Initiative
Advisor(s)
Jamie Hunsicker
Confirmation
1
Document Type
Poster
Location
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Start Date
11-4-2025 11:00 AM
End Date
11-4-2025 11:50 AM
Abstract
Abstract
Problem: The Target Stroke initiative is a quality improvement program developed by the American Heart Association aimed to improve the timely treatment of patients with suspected acute ischemic stroke by reducing door-to-needle times (DNT) for intravenous thrombolysis. The impact of this initiative on mortality and functional outcomes continues to be an important area of study to reduce DTN times and improve patient outcomes.
Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine if the initiative is associated with a reduction in DTN times, as well as improvement of functional outcomes of patients and reduction of mortality rates in suspected ischemic stroke patients.
Methods: This study will be a retrospective review of medical records for suspected acute ischemic stroke patients admitted to the emergency department. Patients will be categorized into two groups: those treated under the Target Stroke initiative and those treated before the implementation of the initiative. Data will be collected on DTN times, discharge functional outcomes (measured using the modified Rankin Scale), and mortality rates.
Conclusion: It is recommended that healthcare systems use the Target Stroke initiative to reduce DTN times. By reducing DTN times, this will help reduce mortality rates and improve functional outcomes in patients experiencing susceptible acute ischemic strokes.
Recommended Citation
Jones, Audrey, "Implementing Target Stroke Initiative" (2025). ONU Student Research Colloquium. 34.
https://digitalcommons.onu.edu/student_research_colloquium/2025/Posters/34
Open Access
Available to all.
Implementing Target Stroke Initiative
ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room
Abstract
Problem: The Target Stroke initiative is a quality improvement program developed by the American Heart Association aimed to improve the timely treatment of patients with suspected acute ischemic stroke by reducing door-to-needle times (DNT) for intravenous thrombolysis. The impact of this initiative on mortality and functional outcomes continues to be an important area of study to reduce DTN times and improve patient outcomes.
Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine if the initiative is associated with a reduction in DTN times, as well as improvement of functional outcomes of patients and reduction of mortality rates in suspected ischemic stroke patients.
Methods: This study will be a retrospective review of medical records for suspected acute ischemic stroke patients admitted to the emergency department. Patients will be categorized into two groups: those treated under the Target Stroke initiative and those treated before the implementation of the initiative. Data will be collected on DTN times, discharge functional outcomes (measured using the modified Rankin Scale), and mortality rates.
Conclusion: It is recommended that healthcare systems use the Target Stroke initiative to reduce DTN times. By reducing DTN times, this will help reduce mortality rates and improve functional outcomes in patients experiencing susceptible acute ischemic strokes.