Effects of NIHSS on Door to Treatment Times

Advisor(s)

Jamie Craig

Confirmation

1

Document Type

Poster

Location

ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room

Start Date

24-4-2026 11:00 AM

End Date

24-4-2026 11:50 AM

Abstract

Abstract

Problem:  Rapid identification of ischemic strokes is critical in improving stroke patient outcomes, reduction in door to treatment time is directly linked to decreased mortality.  Standardized stroke assessment tools, such as the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and evidence-based guidelines improve efficiency of care for ischemic stroke patients.  Despite standardized assessments many hospitals have yet to implement evidence-based guidelines standardized stroke assessment tools.

Purpose:  The purpose of this study is to determine if implementation of the NIHSS reduces door to treatment time among adult patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with suspected stroke, compared to an assessment without a standardized screening tool.

Methods:  The study will utilize a pre-intervention and post-intervention design in a level II trauma hospital ED that treats around 50,000 adult patients annually and functions as a primary stroke center.  The study will analyze adult patients coming into the ED with an onset of ischemic stroke symptoms within the past 24 hours.  Providers will be trained on use of the NIHSS. The time from door to treatment for patients experiencing stroke will be measured for six-months prior to implementation of the NIHSS and for six-months following use of the NIHSS.

Conclusion:  It is expected that use of the NIHSS will significantly reduce door to treatment times by updating standardized assessment tools, earlier stroke recognition, and more efficient collaboration amongst providers. Findings from this study may support evidence based practice changes and contribute to improved stroke care in emergency settings.

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Apr 24th, 11:00 AM Apr 24th, 11:50 AM

Effects of NIHSS on Door to Treatment Times

ONU McIntosh Center; Activities Room

Abstract

Problem:  Rapid identification of ischemic strokes is critical in improving stroke patient outcomes, reduction in door to treatment time is directly linked to decreased mortality.  Standardized stroke assessment tools, such as the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and evidence-based guidelines improve efficiency of care for ischemic stroke patients.  Despite standardized assessments many hospitals have yet to implement evidence-based guidelines standardized stroke assessment tools.

Purpose:  The purpose of this study is to determine if implementation of the NIHSS reduces door to treatment time among adult patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with suspected stroke, compared to an assessment without a standardized screening tool.

Methods:  The study will utilize a pre-intervention and post-intervention design in a level II trauma hospital ED that treats around 50,000 adult patients annually and functions as a primary stroke center.  The study will analyze adult patients coming into the ED with an onset of ischemic stroke symptoms within the past 24 hours.  Providers will be trained on use of the NIHSS. The time from door to treatment for patients experiencing stroke will be measured for six-months prior to implementation of the NIHSS and for six-months following use of the NIHSS.

Conclusion:  It is expected that use of the NIHSS will significantly reduce door to treatment times by updating standardized assessment tools, earlier stroke recognition, and more efficient collaboration amongst providers. Findings from this study may support evidence based practice changes and contribute to improved stroke care in emergency settings.