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

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.