Schretzman, D. (2001). Acute ischemic stroke. Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing, 20(2), pp. 14-21.
Summary - this article covers the types of ischemic strokes, ischemic strokes in older people and the window of opportunity for their treatment. It then discusses stroke prevention, both primary prevention procedures and secondary prevention procedures. It talks about the clinical presentation of strokes and their emergency management and diagnostic tests used to determine the type of stroke and other problems which may accompany it. Treatment options are discussed and the types of medications used for treatment are detailed, and the paper ends by discussing follow-up care briefly and gives a conclusion. The paper includes several tables and figures giving risk factors for stroke, common signs and symptoms, and a patient education handout on ischemic stroke.
Opinion - this paper gives a thorough discussion of ischemic stroke, touching on all the relevant associated issues. It provides the nurse the tools necessary to understand the ischemic stroke patient and how to approach the problem.
Preventing a brain attack. (2001). Harvard Health Letter,
Summary - this is a brief, one-page article discussing the risk factors for ischemic stoke. It discusses hypertension, smoking, diabetes, cholesterol, carotid endarterectomy, vitamins and alcohol. These are some of the major risk factors for ischemic stroke. It points out that some of these factors may have a beneficial effect in preventing ischemic stroke e.g. vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid, and alcohol, but warns there is no proof that they actually reduce the risk of stroke. It also recommends carotid endarterectomy for those who have already had a stroke or who are at high risk.
Opinion - this brief article gives a summary of some of the risk factors for stroke and some recommendations. It is not a comprehensive coverage of ischemic stroke.
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