CT scanning in acute stroke patients (at home or Community Hospital) (Guidelines)

Typically suitable where a confident clinical diagnosis of stroke has been made; AND
• A further vascular event would have important clinical consequences; AND
• Patients could tolerate, or co-operate with, antiplatelet or anticoagulant and other drug treatment; OR
• Has suffered a carotid distribution TIA or stroke with good recovery and is otherwise fit for carotid surgery – Rapid outpatient referral for assessment for carotid surgery is required;
• There is no upper age limit for secondary prevention, although age will influence assessment for carotid surgery;
• Further details are provided in Protocol for Secondary Prevention.

Complete x-ray request and referral form specifying:
• Date of onset
• Symptoms and signs of suspected stroke
• Previous CNS history
• Previous and current medical history (if relevant) including current medication
• Transport arrangements patients should not drive themselves (ambulance or hospital car, own transport)
• Referring GP/Consultant contact number
• For all patients scans cannot be performed without confirmed ID. For Hospital patients wristband ID is essential
• For patients at home a contact number is required. If patient is unable to communicate they must be accompanied to allow identification.
• Case notes and Drug Kardex must accompany all hospital patients.