Structured follow-up pathway to address unmet needs after transient ischaemic attack and minor stroke (SUPPORT TIA): Feasibility study and process evaluation

Background

Care following transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke is variable and often leaves patients feeling abandoned and uncertain. We developed a theoretically-informed, multifaceted intervention which comprised nurse-led, structured follow-up at 4 weeks after TIA/minor stroke to identify and address patient needs. This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of both the intervention and procedures to inform a future randomised controlled trial.

Method

We conducted a multicentre, randomised feasibility study with mixed-methods process evaluation (ISRCTN registry reference: ISRCTN39864003). We collected patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 1, 12 and 24 weeks and clinical data at baseline and 24 weeks. The process evaluation comprised qualitative interviews with a sub-sample, feedback questionnaires, and observations of intervention delivery.

Results

We recruited 54 patients over 12 months, achieving 90% of the target sample size (n = 60). PROMs return rates were 94.4% (51/54), 85.2% (46/54) and 71.1% (27/38) at 1, 12, and 24-weeks, respectively. Intervention fidelity was high and the intervention largely aligned with the theoretical underpinnings. The process evaluation illustrated how patients benefitted from the intervention through support they would not have received through usual care. This included direct referral or signposting to support services, information and education, actionable advice, and reassurance about and normalisation of recovery. The trial design was feasible and acceptable for both patients and clinicians.

Conclusion

Nurse-led, structured follow-up after TIA and minor stroke is feasible, acceptable and valued by patients and clinicians. Our intervention can identify and help address unmet needs. A definitive randomised trial to evaluate intervention effectiveness and cost-effectiveness is feasible and acceptable.