Research shows an association between stroke mortality and weekend working - Stroke Association response

Data from the Royal College of Physicians stroke audit programme has been used to research the effect that seven day working by doctors and nurses has in relation to levels of mortality after stroke. The study found that stroke patients are more likely to die at weekends in wards with fewer stroke nurses.

Nikki Hill, Deputy Director of External Affairs at the Stroke Association said:

“Nurses are a vital part of the specialist stroke team, helping more people survive and thrive after stroke.  Stroke is a medical emergency, so stroke survivors should have access to the best levels of specialist diagnosis and treatment seven days a week.  Correct staffing levels of specialist stroke nurses play a key role in ensuring that no one dies needlessly of stroke.”