Audit shows less than 70% of stroke patients admitted to specialised units

The team found bed shortages and infection control were the main barriers to admission. File picture: Julien Behal

An audit of stroke care in Ireland has found only 69% of patients were admitted to a dedicated stroke unit last year, even though this increases survival rates and the national target is 90%.

Patients in these units are more likely to live and live well at home one year after strokes, the audit states. The team found bed shortages and infection control were the main barriers to admission. Some patients were too mildly ill or needed ICU care.