Stroke is a debilitating condition that causes neurological dysfunction, which affects a person’s ability to think, communicate, mobilise, and to maintain balance or coordination. This article will discuss the treatment options available, including medical and surgical interventions. Common medications used in acute ischaemic stroke will be discussed, and the nursing role in safe drug administration will be described. A case-study approach is used to describe a patient scenario, which will provide a good understanding of the prescription of stroke medications, based on recommendations from clinical guidelines and evidence-based practice.

Elmer Catangui - Nurse specialist in stroke care, King Abdulaziz Medical City Riyadh; formerly clinical nurse specialist in stroke/TIA and nurse prescriber, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London