Patient information
The TIA information pathway
At every stage of the pathway
Key points to cover:
- Information needs to be the same at every source
- What’s happened and what’s next – maps, pathway appointment etc – maps, times, website, who, where
- Prevention and what to do if it happens again
- Repeat previous information if needed
- Identify key sources of support
- Who to speak to if unhappy
Prevention leaflets are available on: preventing a stroke, smoking, healthy eating, alcohol, exercise, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and stress are available from The Stroke Association, Age UK, the NHS, British Heart Foundation, Food Standards Agency and Patient UK.
The Atrial Fibrillation Association have a number of leaflets including: Atrial Fibrillation Checklist, Atrial Fibrillation Patient Information, Drug Information, Patient and Primary Care Checklist, FAQ Warfarin Pocket Card.
First contact
Key points to cover:
- Enforce how important it is to go to your appointment - high or low risk
- Key advice to give - driving and what to do if it happens again
Examples
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Trust: Transient Ischaemic Attack Patient Information Leaflet
The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust: TIA appointment leaflet
Clinic
Key points to cover:
- Explain investigations and treatment options Give key messages about secondary prevention, identifying individual's personal risk factors and what to do if it happens again Point to sources of more information and provide a single point of contact for information
Examples
From The Stroke Association: Care after stroke or transient ischaemic attack. Information for patients and their carers, and a factsheet
NHS Choices: stroke and TIA information prescription
Brain and Spine Foundation TIA: A fact sheet for patients and carers
Follow up
Key points to cover: May need to go over what happened and whyRemind of sources of support and information availableReview any ongoing treatment optionsReinforce messages given at clinic about secondary prevention, identifying individuals personal risk factors and what to do if it happens again
Examples
From The Stroke Association: Care after stroke or transient ischaemic attack -Information for patients and their carers, and a factsheet
NHS Choices: stroke and TIA information prescription