Stroke patients' and carers' perception of barriers to accessing stroke information

PURPOSE: Education is a key component of post stroke care, but patients and carers often report dissatisfaction with information provided. A small number of studies have reported challenges surrounding the provision of information to this population, but patients' perspectives have not been explored in detail. The aim of this study was to identify patients' and carers' perceived barriers to accessing and understanding information about stroke.

METHOD: Interviews were conducted with patients and their carers prior to and 3 months following discharge from an acute stroke unit. Transcripts were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS: The three categories of barriers were identified: (1) limited availability and suitability of information, (2) barriers in the hospital environment, and (3) patient and carer barriers. Three themes were also identified, namely, (1) who is responsible, (2) communication, and (3) not knowing.

CONCLUSION: These results have clinical implications for the way in which health professionals coordinate and present stroke information to patients and carers. Addressing these barriers may enhance patients' and carers' access to, understanding of, and satisfaction with information about stroke.