Developing and implementing a stroke education series for patients and families.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the major reason for disability in American adults (Sullivan, 1992). Stroke can be a recurrent disease, but most strokes are preventable. Patient and family education about stroke is a vital link in eliminating the knowledge deficit that can help lead to stroke. This article describes the process of developing and implementing a stroke education program that involves both patients and their significant others. In 1990, rehabilitation nurses at St. Margaret Mercy Healthcare Centers in Hammond, IN, identified 11 essential areas for education and grouped them into six 1-hour teaching sessions. A program was developed and held weekly for a trial period of 3 months. It was so well received that it continues to be a permanent part of the rehabilitation program. Such structured teaching in a relaxed atmosphere better prepares patients for discharge and eases the transition to the home environment.