A set of care quality indicators for stroke management.

OBJECTIVE:This study proposes a set of quality indicators for care outcomes in patients with acute cerebral infarction. These indicators are understandable and relevant from a clinical viewpoint, as well as being acceptable and feasible in terms of time required, ease of data capture, and interpretability. METHOD:The method consisted of reaching consensus among doctors after having reviewed the literature on quality indicators in stroke. We then designed and conducted a field study to assess the understandability and feasibility of the set of indicators. RESULTS:Consensus yielded 8 structural indicators, 5 process indicators, and 12 result indicators. Additionally, standards of reference were established for each indicator. CONCLUSION:This set of indicators can be used to monitor the quality care for stroke patients, identify strengths, and potentially to identify areas needing improvement.