Stroke and transient ischaemic attack

This factsheet covers stroke and its causes and risk factors. It goes on to discuss management options and signpost to patient resources.

These resources can be accessed via the CPPE website under e-Learning for Healthcare learning modules. The Stroke Toolkit aligns to the NHS Long Term Plan and provides learners with a comprehensive list of online resources, that can be used in conjunction with the Stroke-Specific Education Framework, to support workforce upskilling, training and development.

This NICE CKS defines both stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and explores the available management options.

This e-learning programme outlines the risk factors of stroke, pharmacological management of acute stroke and secondary prevention. It equips learners to provide a comprehensive service to stroke patients and to patients who may be at risk of stroke.

Please note: this e-learning programme has been developed and provided by the Northern Ireland Centre for Pharmacy Learning and Development (NICPLD). Users should recognise that this programme will refer to Northern Ireland's policies and organisations. After ordering this programme, you will be redirected to their website where the resource is hosted. Please be aware that CPPE does not maintain control over the accuracy and currency of this programme.

Learning Outcomes:

• define stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and describe the different types of stroke
• recognise the signs and symptoms of stroke and the importance of quick and appropriate action
• list the risk factors for the different types of stroke
• calculate the ten-year risk of developing a stroke
• identify the best practice measures in acute stroke care and outline the basis of secondary prevention of stroke
• describe the range of problems that stroke survivors may face.

The aim of this e-course is to develop your knowledge and skills in cardiovascular therapeutics. This will enable you to provide a person-centred approach to support the healthcare of people living with or at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. It is designed for pharmacy professionals working in all areas of practice.

To facilitate your learning, we have structured the course into seven units. Some units are larger than others, but we estimate that you will need to commit an average of three hours of learning for each unit.

• Unit 1 – Introduction to cardiovascular therapeutics
• Unit 2 – Atrial fibrillation
• Unit 3 – Blood pressure
• Unit 4 – Cholesterol
• Unit 5 – Stable angina
• Unit 6 – Acute coronary syndrome
• Unit 7 – Heart failure

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of all aspects of this learning programme, you should be able to:

• describe the anatomy and function of the cardiovascular system
• explain the changes to cardiovascular system anatomy and function occurring in common cardiovascular conditions
• identify opportunities to develop your role and professional networks to deliver holistic and seamless care for people living with or at higher risk of cardiovascular disease
• apply your knowledge of medicines and cardiovascular guidelines to support evidence-based decisions and medicines optimisation for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease
• demonstrate a shared decision making approach to the care of people living with or at higher risk of cardiovascular disease
• create a personal action plan that describes the actions you will take to support people living with or at higher risk of cardiovascular disease

Stroke Association has a dedicated area of their website where you can find resources, events and information aimed at professionals providing care and support to those affected, or at risk of stroke.