UK clinical approaches to address post-stroke fatigue: findings from The Nottingham Fatigue after Stroke study

Abstract

Although post-stroke is common and debilitating, there is little published research on how it is managed by clinicians. The aim of this study was to document UK management of post-stroke fatigue and ascertain whether there are any differences in its management compared to fatigue arising from other conditions. A cross-sectional survey was used with allied health professionals, psychologists, doctors and nurses working clinically in hospitals, the community or both, who routinely provided information, management or treatment to patients with fatigue. Questionnaires were designed and underwent pilot testing. Recruitment was conducted using healthcare professional networks, professional and condition special interest groups and social media, snowballing and personal emails targeting key professional experts. A total of 305 questionnaires were analysed; the majority of responses were from occupational therapists (56%, n=171). Although there were different opinions about whether post-stroke fatigue was the same as fatigue resulting from other conditions, the strategies suggested for both were similar. Post-stroke management included pacing (67%, n=204), which is spreading activities out during the day or week, keeping a fatigue diary (39%, n=119) and education (38%, n=117). There were variations in how support was offered, and marked variations in length of follow up; some services were flexible and could retain patients for up to 18 months, while others offered one session and no follow up. People with post-stroke fatigue and fatigue arising from other conditions experience different levels of support to manage their fatigue, but the main strategies used in management are similar.