Reporting

During transitions, timely, up-to-date, accurate and appropriate patient-related information should be shared with the receiving healthcare providers. 

Reference: Kripalani et al., 2007
NHMRC level of evidence:  I

Rationale: Stroke patient care tends to be complex and require ongoing monitoring and management. Clear communication in a timely manner is essential to ensure continuity of care, patient safety, and reduce risk of complications and adverse events resulting from the confusion and ambiguity that can arise during transition points (Canadian Stroke Strategy, 2013). A systematic review of discharge from hospital cited lack of communication between health professionals as a significant factor in adverse events (Kripalani et al., 2007).

 References:

1. The Canadian Stroke Strategy. (2010). Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Stroke Care.  Ottawa, Ontario Canada: Canadian Stroke Network
2. Kripalani, S., LeFevre, F., Phillips, C. O., Williams, M. V., Basaviah, P., & Baker, D. W. (2007). Deficit in communication and information transfer between hospital-based and primary care physicians. Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), 297(8), 831-841.