Factors Influencing the Timeliness of Treatment for Acute Stroke Patients at Banmi Hospital, Lopburi

Abstract

Objective: To examine factors influencing the timeliness of treatment for acute stroke patients at Banmi Hospital, Lopburi. Methods: This is a retrospective analytic study aimed at investigating the factors influencing timely treatment of acute stroke patients at Banmi Hospital, Lopburi Province. The research population consisted of patients presenting with acute stroke symptoms who were treated in the emergency department and outpatient clinic, and who were diagnosed with acute stroke between October 1, 2018, and September 30, 2023. The sample comprised 212 patients, divided into a study group of 106 patients and a control group of 106 patients. Results: The multivariate analysis revealed that the factors influencing the prediction of timely treatment within three hours for acute stroke patients included: having a history of stroke (OR_adj = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.00-0.25), having a history of heart disease (OR_adj = 20.18, 95% CI: 2.46-165.61), and having severe symptoms (GCS ≤ 8) (OR_adj = 5.54, 95% CI: 1.17-26.14). Conclusion: Timely treatment of stroke significantly impacts the quality of life for patients. Therefore, raising public awareness to ensure timely access to treatment, as well as educating the community about the symptoms and warning signs of acute stroke, is crucial. This is essential to prevent mortality or disability among the population.