Timing of hospital arrival in stroke patients in Benin City Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to observe the time of arrival to hospital of stroke patients in Benin City, Edo state and to present the predictors of delayed presentation after acute stroke.

Method: This is an observational cross sectional study which was carried out in the medical wards of Central Hospital, Benin City and University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City. We studied one hundred patients with a clinical diagnosis of stroke and also with neuro-imaging (CT scan brain) findings consistent with stroke, for timing of hospital arrival and predictors of delayed presentation.

Results: A total of one hundred patients were seen during the study period. Sixty males and forty females. The mean age of patients was 61±12.7 years. The median time of presentation to hospital was 48hours. 38% of patients presented within 3hours, while 62% presented after 3hours. Patients older than 65years of age and patients who were referred from another center were significantly more likely to present late after a stroke.

Conclusion: Our study supports the need for educational programs and stroke campaigns to increase awareness of the public and health professionals to improve early arrival of patients to hospital.