Implementation of a Stroke Response Team at a Pediatric Emergency Department

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Timely usage of hyperacute therapies, such as intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV-tPA) and mechanical thrombectomy, appear to be safe and effective in children. Despite this, early recognition and diagnosis of pediatric AIS within the therapeutic window for hyperacute therapies remains a challenge. Our objective is to improve timely diagnosis of AIS at our pediatric tertiary hospital emergency department (ED) through the implementation of an interdisciplinary stroke alert team and improved coordination of care.