ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026A718 CHANGES IN STROKE MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOME DURING MAJOR PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, A 10 YEARS STUDY OF NATIONAL DATA

Abstract Background and aims We used 10 year Irish National Audit of Stroke data to evaluate changes in management and outcome over the major holidays, Christmas (December 24th-26th), New Years (January 1st) and St Patrick's Day (March 17th). Methods Data for the Christmas period 22nd December to 4th January were evaluated 2015-24. Control data were collected for 4 periods; 5th-11th January, 1st-7th December, 1st -7th February and the week of St Patrick’s day, 14th-20th March. This was used as another public holiday with a fixed date. Data on numbers of admissions, demographics, pre and post stroke disability and interventions were analysed. Results Data on 6088 patients were analysed. Median age was 75 years and 57% were male with no difference over Christmas. There was no reduction in admissions over the Christmas period (14.5 admissions/ day both in Christmas week and control periods). However average admissions on December 25th (13, z=-1.33), December 26th (11.5, z=-2.5) and March 17th (11.3, z=-2.7) were lower than average. In-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher for those admitted on Christmas day (15.4% (z=3.1)) or St Patrick’s day (15.9% (z=3.33) than in the control period (mean (SD): 9.2% (2.5%)). Thrombolysis rate was significantly higher on 24th December than any other day studied (mean thrombolysis rate (SD): Controls, 10.7% (2.7%), 24th December, 20.0% (z=3.44). Conclusions There are significant differences in rates of in hospital mortality and thrombolysis found over holiday periods. There is also evidence of reduced admission rates over holidays perhaps suggesting non-presentation of more minor strokes. Conflict of interest Maeve O'Connor, Nothing to disclose. Joseph Harbison, Nothing to disclose. Joan McCormack Nothing to disclose. Olga Brych Nothing to disclose. Peter Kelly Nothing to disclose. Ronan Collins Nothing to disclose. John McCabe Nothing to disclose. Margaret O'Connor, Nothing to disclose. Tim Cassidy Nothing to disclose.