Effect of Public Education Regarding Stroke Warning Signs on Pre-Hospital Delay and Frequency of Tissue Plasminogen Activator Therapy in Stroke Patients

Background: Treatment with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is one of the effective therapeutic strategies for treating stroke. Its effectiveness is associated with the period between the onset of symptoms and initiation of the treatment. An earlier intervention can result in better results and prognosis. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of public education regarding stroke warning signs on pre-hospital delay and frequency of tPA therapy in stroke patients referring to the emergency department. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, the research population included all stroke patients referring to an emergency department in an urban area of Iran in 2016 - 2018. Educational intervention included the distribution of educational pamphlets through the city, the installation of banners, radio training programs, etc. began in November 2017 and lasted one year. Patients’ information was collected one year before and one year after the intervention. Data were analyzed with independent t-test and chi-square test using SPSS version 18 software. Results: According to the results, in the post-intervention phase, the frequency of referrals in all three intervals (less than 3 hours, 3 - 6 hours, and more than 6 hours) were increased compared with the pre-intervention phase. There was no significant difference regarding the frequency of treatment with tPA between two intervals. Conclusions: Based on the results, public education can raise awareness regarding the symptoms of stroke and prevent serious neurological defects after ischemic stroke, based on which the used intervention is highly recommended.