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Medical complications were documented in 147 patients(60%)and were common in patients with severe strokes(97%).The frequency of reported complications was similar in both settings.Aspiration(33%versus 20%;P<.01) and musculoskeletal pain(38%versus 23%;P<.05)were more commonly documented on the stroke unit,whereas urinary problems(18%versus 7%;P<.01)and infections(49%versus 25%;P<.01)were not commonly seen on general medical wards.The reported frequency of deep vein thrombi,pressure sores,and stroke progression was reported equally in both settings(34%on the stroke unit versus 27%on general wards),patients on the stroke unit were more likely to be treated compared with general wards(67%versus 36%;P<.05).The study shows that inpatient stroke rehabilitation is a medically active service.Management on specialist units is associated with earlier detection and management of stroke-related problems and prevention of potentially life-threatening complications. |
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