Examining factors associated with pre-admission to discharge of stroke patients

Stroke is the second leading cause of death and a major cause of adult disability in Taiwan. This research established correlations between pre-admission and discharge data in stroke patients to promote education of the general public, prevention, treatment and high standards of chronic care. A total of 790 stroke patients at Chung Shan Medical University Hospital from 2007 to 2009 contained in the Taiwan Stroke Registry were included in this study. The patients were classified into two major categories: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Thirteen variables, including time series variables, were explored. Our results showed that age, education, hours from symptom onset to the emergency department (ED) arrival, and length of stay in hospital were significantly associated with stroke incidence. These findings show the present situation and medical quality of medical care for stroke patients in Taiwan. The factors association model may assist in developing a set of improvement plans for the coming year.