A cluster randomized trial to assess the impact of clinical pathways for patients with stroke: rationale and design of the Clinical Pathways for Effective and Appropriate Care Study
2008

Improving Stroke Care with Clinical Pathways

Sample size: 476 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Panella Massimiliano, Marchisio Sara, Barbieri Antonella, Di Stanislao Francesco

Primary Institution: University of Eastern Piedmont 'A. Avogadro'

Hypothesis

Clinical pathways would be more effective than usual care in treating stroke patients and that the clinical pathways would reduce both patient mortality and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Clinical pathways can significantly improve the outcomes of patients affected by stroke.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study aims to improve the quality of care through clinical pathways.
  • Clinical pathways are complex interventions that can enhance the quality of care across the continuum.
  • The study includes a sample size of 476 patients to ensure adequate power.

Takeaway

This study is trying to see if having a clear plan for treating stroke patients can help them get better faster and live longer.

Methodology

Two-arm, cluster-randomized trial with hospitals and rehabilitation long-term care facilities as randomization units.

Potential Biases

Blinding of patients and clinicians was not possible.

Limitations

The study may face challenges in keeping the intervention replicable and recognizable across different sites.

Participant Demographics

Patients admitted with a principal diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke, aged 18 and older.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-8-223

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