Impact of Thrombolysis Time Metrics When Participating in National Stroke Center Construction Project

PURPOSE: Intravenous thrombolysis has emerged as an effective approach to improve the long-term survival and functional status of patients with ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a national stroke project on the door-to-needle-time (DNT). PATIENTS AND METHODS: The patients were divided into pre-construction and construction periods. Construction Measures were performed during the construction period. The DNT and onset-to-needle time (ONT) were compared in two period groups. RESULTS: After participating in the National Stroke Center Project and effective measurements, the thrombolysis treatment metrics were improved significantly. The DNT (IQR) was shortened from 65.0 (54.5,85.0) minutes in the Pre-Construction period to 40.0 (33.0,53.0) minutes in the Construction period (p < 0.001). Similarly, the ONT was reduced from 157.0 (IQR) (115.0,184.0) minutes to 116.0 (87.8,170.0) minutes (p = 0.035). CONCLUSION: The DNT time and ONT time can be shortened by National Stroke Center Construction projects. More suitable hospitals should be encouraged to participate as the National Stroke Center.