Australian health professionals' perceptions about the management of return to driving early after stroke: A mixed methods study. Issue 3 (3rd April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Frith, Janet; James, Carole; Hubbard, Isobel; Warren-Forward, Helen
• Is Part Of: Topics in stroke rehabilitation. Volume 28:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 198
• Page End: 206
• Publication Date: 2021-04-03
• Subjects: Automobile driving – evaluation -- stroke – acute -- occupational therapy -- general practitioners -- practice guidelines; Cerebrovascular disease -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Cerebrovascular disease -- Periodicals; 616.810305
• DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2020.1803570
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1074-9357

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: Stroke can affect a person's ability to drive a motor vehicle. In Australia, there is a 4-week restriction in driving after stroke and a 2-week restriction after transient ischemic attack. Concerns exist as to whether people discharged home from the acute setting receive education about these driving restrictions. Objectives: This study sought to investigate health professionals' knowledge about, and responsibilities for patients return-to-driving (RTD) education after stroke and TIA. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was designed and included questions about health professional demographic characteristics and knowledge and opinions of RTD guidelines. An open-ended question at the end of the survey enabled respondents to provide additional, free text information. Descriptive analyses were used to describe respondents' demography and characteristics. Chi-square analysis was used to compare responses across the different professional groups. Significance was tested using a p -value of 0.05. Data obtained from the free text question were analyzed through an inductive thematic approach. Results: A total of 455 health professionals responded to the survey, with 45% being occupational therapists. Only 22% of health professionals correctly selected the 4-week restriction period after stroke and 27% selected the 2-week restriction period for those with TIA. Occupational therapists were identified by 85% of respondents as the profession responsible for providing RTD education, followed by doctors (72%). Health professionals lack clarity in RTD guidelines and often defer the responsibility of managing RTD to others. Conclusions: Education of health professionals in RTD guidelines is recommended to improve the processes of care after stroke.