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Longitudinal Study on Unmet Needs in Young Stroke Survivors: Predictive Factors and Consequences

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: AIMS: To investigate unmet need trajectories among young stroke survivors, identify predictive factors and evaluate the lagged effects of unmet needs on post-stroke health outcomes. DESIGN: Prospective longitudinal study. METHODS: We recruited 122 patients with stroke, assessed at four time points over a 6-month follow-up period. The Unmet Needs Questionnaire assessed unmet needs. Predictive factors included participant characteristics and stroke-related factors. Outcome variables included physical functions, quality of life, depressive symptoms and return-to-work status. Generalised Estimating Equations were employed. RESULTS: Unmet need trajectories decreased over time. Sex, marital status, stroke history, stroke severity, fatigue and cognitive function were key unmet need predictors. Lagged unmet needs were associated with poorer post-stroke health outcomes. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the dynamic nature of unmet needs in young stroke survivors and underscores the importance of addressing these needs to improve post-stroke health outcomes. Targeted interventions are essential to mitigate the negative impact of unmet needs on recovery. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Young stroke survivors continue to experience unmet needs in important areas even 6 months post-stroke. Nurses play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by regularly assessing patient care needs, monitoring their progress and implementing targeted interventions. Integrating routine nursing assessments into post-stroke care can help identify high-risk patients and ensure that individualised support is provided throughout the recovery process. REPORTING METHOD: Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.

Source: Journal of Clinical Nursing

DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17781

Authors: Wen‐Yu Kuo, Chen‐Yin Chen, Ting‐Yu Chang, Chin‐Man Wang, Hsin‐Hsu Wu, Min‐Chi Chen