INTRAVENOUS THROMBOLYSIS FOR ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE: FROM THE INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES TO THE PATIENTS’ BEDSIDE

Abstract

Stroke is one of the main causes of death and disability globally. Its prevention and effective therapeutic approach are compelling. Intravenous thrombolysis is an effective treatment for the acute ischemic stroke cases fulfilling specific criteria. Currently, the treatment is typically offered in 3rd-grade Hospitals of Greece. We present herein a clinical protocol that is based on the Irish model of 2015, adjusted to the National Organization for Medicines and the updated guidelines for the management of acute ischemic stroke of 2018. It aims to sum up all the necessary information for the medical and nursing personnel, such as inclusion-exclusion criteria, clinical assessment scales, weight-based dosing charts, and guidelines for further monitoring and management of possible complications. Since it is widely accepted that “Time is Brain”, a short clinical protocol in Greek language might assist the non-specialized physician, the resident and the General Practitioner (GP) to accelerate the diagnostic procedures and guide patients in the Emergency Department timely, aiming to “save the brain”.