The knowledge and awareness of Clinical Health Science students on stroke recognition and management

Abstract: Background The problem statement identified for this study concerns whether the health science students at the University of Johannesburg are equipped to recognise and manage a stroke patient. Furthermore, do the health science students have sufficient retained knowledge on stroke risk factors to manage patients at risk of stroke, and how does this influence their confidence? Aim This study aimed to determine the knowledge and awareness of clinical year Chiropractic, Complementary Medicine, Emergency Medical Care, Nursing, Optometry, and Podiatry students at the University of Johannesburg on stroke recognition and management. Research methodology The study was an exploratory, quantitative, descriptive study. The sample consisted of two hundred and twenty-nine students of which a hundred and twenty-one responded to the survey. This constituted a 41.5 participation rate. Results and discussion The results of the study showed that the majority of the participants had a high ability to recognise stroke signs and symptoms, using the BEFAST screening tool as a guide. Furthermore, the participants showed a high ability to recognise the stroke risk factors. What the students regarded as the highest priority in acute stroke setting and their specific clinical training had conflicting results. Conclusion and recommendations In conclusion, the majority of the students showed a high level of retained knowledge on stroke recognition, with adequate stroke awareness. The knowledge on what the participants regarded as the highest priority in an acute setting does show room for improvement, but with possible adjustment in clarification in the question design.M.Tech. (Chiropractic