StrokeSense : Physician's Resource

Stroke Action Plan

You and your patients work together to reduce their risk for stroke, as well as to reduce stroke's damaging effects, should one occur. Part of this process is an action plan for patients. A basic action plan should include these 11 recommendations:

1. Stop smoking.
2. Drink alcohol only in moderation.
3. Exercise regularly.
4. Keep diabetes under control.
5. Reduce your sodium in your diet.
6. Take medications as prescribed.
7. Have your blood pressure checked annually.
8. Have your physician check for atrial fibrillation.
9. Have your blood cholesterol screened annually.
10. Discuss your health openly with your physician and share any symptoms.
11. Recognize the symptoms of stroke and seek help immediately.
    

For more information on getting these messages across, see Communicating With Patients About Stroke.

Reference

• Stroke: Hope Through Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Sept. 16, 2002.

Source of Material: RockHill Communications, 14 Rock Hill Road Bala, Cynwyd, PA 19004, (610) 667-2040,
Writer: Christine Norris
Editors: Erin Murphy, Andrea King, Joanne Poeggel, Ron Wozny
Clinical Reviewer: Patt Panzer, M.D.
Date Written: 4/30/01
Last Revised: 4/3/03