Access and therapeutic itineraries of individuals post cerebrovascular accident: the case of Blumenau/SC

Abstract

Introduction: The cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is an aggressive disease and is a main cause of disability, hospitalizations and dead in the whole world. This research aimed know the therapeutic itineraries, after hospital discharge, of individuals that suffered stroke in Blumenau ? Santa Catarina (SC), as well as their referrals and guidelines at hospital discharge. Methods: The study is characterized as qualitative research with and exploratory character, using as instrument the semi-open interview with a prescribed script. Constituted as research participants twenty-two post-stroke individuals that received care and hospital discharge in the municipality of Blumenau. Results: The individuals, in the mostly of the male gender, were affected by ischemic stroke with an age range of 59,5 years. It was found that most individuals start their therapeutic itinerary by returning to their health units and that the sequence of their way is variable. The referrals vary from the exclusive referral to physiotherapy, to multidisciplinary care. As for the time, it varied from 15 days to beginning of the process until approximately one year after dischange. Regarding the guidelines at hospital discharge, have been identified variations ranging from total absence to suggestions for home ergonomic adaptations. However, the most frequent ones were related to nutrition, bed positioning and exercises. Finalconsiderations: The study points out  discrepancies as to the paths, times and guidelines at hospital discharge among individuals. This variation directly impacts the rehabilitation process since well oriented individuals and the continuity of treatment without a break increases the prospect of a recovery with quality and autonomy.