Extended Stroke Unit Care wiyh Early Supported Discharge co-ordinated by a stroke team improves outcome for stroke patients

Extended stroke unit care with early supported discharge co-ordinated by a stroke team improves outcome for stroke patients H.Fjærtoft, B. Indredavik, G. Ekeberg, A.D.Løge, and B.Mørch. Stroke Unit, Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Trondheim, Norway. Background: Several trials have shown that stroke unit care improves the outcome for acute stroke patients. The aim of the present trial was to evaluate the effects of an extended stroke unit service (ESUS) co-ordinated by a stroke team, with early supported discharge, close co-operation with the primary health care, and more emphasis on rehabilitation at home as essential elements. Methods: In a randomised controlled trial 160 patients with acute stroke were allocated to the ESUS and 160 allocated to the ordinary stroke unit care (OSUS). No significant difference existed in the baseline characteristics between the two groups. The primary outcome were assessed after 52 weeks by the proportion of patients being independent (Rankin scale