Background and Aims: With the recent expansion of the Neurovascular Unit at Toronto Western Hospital, there has been an influx of new nurses across the unit. Although the orientation process is comprehensive, there is still a significant knowledge gap that can affect patient care for those with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). The literature suggests that developing clinical pathways can promote nursing competence and confidence. As a result, the authors set out to develop a clinical pathway for aSAH to improve patient care and support nurses.
Methods: An extensive review of current best practice standards was used to develop a clinical pathway for aSAH. During development of this clinical pathway, the authors worked closely with the unit manager, advanced practice nurse educator, neurosurgery nurse practitioners, and nurses on the Neurovascular Unit to ensure transferability. After a rigorous review, the clinical pathway was made accessible to staff. The efficacy of this pathway will be evaluated with a pre- and post-survey.
Results: Based on the pre- and post-survey, results related to nursing competence and confidence will be published at a later date. The authors anticipate that the clinical pathway for aSAH should not only improve patient care, but improve the ability of nurses to advocate for patients with aSAH.
Conclusion: In the above quality improvement initiative, the authors sought to improve patient care and support nurses by developing a clinical pathway for aSAH. Future objectives include the development of clinical pathways for other neurovascular disorders in the future.
