Patients’ Knowledge after a Stroke about Selected Risk Factors for Ischemic Stroke

Introduction. Stroke is a life-threatening condition, being the second leading cause of death worldwide. Risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of a cerebrovascular event. Effective prevention can delay the onset of the disease or significantly mitigate its course and complications. Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge of patients in the Stroke Unit of the Provincial Specialist Hospital No. 2 in Jastrzębie-Zdrój after experiencing a stroke regarding selected risk factors for ischemic stroke. Material and Methods. The study was conducted from January 26 to May 10, 2023, with a study group of 105 patients. The diagnostic survey method was employed. The research tool utilized was a self-designed questionnaire survey. Results. Analysis of the study indicates that 44.8% of the 105 respondents believe that stroke can be prevented. Among the risk factors for ischemic stroke, respondents most frequently indicated alcoholism (96.2%), and least frequently oral hormonal contraception (1.9%). None of the respondents indicated all risk factors, with the highest number of individuals (21.9%) indicating 8 out of 13 risk factors. Conclusions. Patients after a stroke do not possess sufficient knowledge about the risk factors for the development of ischemic stroke. (JNNN 2024;13(3):95–99)