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First Steps After
Stroke

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Introduction

A stroke is a life-altering event, and navigating the recovery process can feel overwhelming. Having the right questions at your fingertips can empower you to understand your care, advocate for your needs, and take an active role in your recovery. This guide is designed to help stroke survivors and their caregivers ask key questions at each stage of the recovery process. Ask these questions, take notes if possible, and remember—knowledge is power.

Immediate Steps: Understanding Your Condition (First 24-48 Hours)

Core Questions About Your Stroke

  • What type of stroke did I have (ischemic or hemorrhagic)?

  • Which areas of my brain were affected, and what functions might be impacted?

  • What caused my stroke, and was the cause identified?

  • What is my NIH Stroke Scale score, and what does it mean?

  • What immediate treatments have I received, or will I need?

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Questions About Medications

  • What new medications am I taking?

  • What is each medication for?

  • What are their potential side effects?

  • Should I continue taking my previous medications?

  • What medications should I stop taking?

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Questions About Immediate Care

  • What tests or monitoring will I need?

  • What complications should we watch for?

  • Who are the key members of my care team?

  • How can my family help during this time?

  • When might I be able to eat and drink safely?

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Weekly Notes

Early Recovery Phase (Days 3-7)

Questions About Your Care Plan

  • What is my expected length of hospital stay?

  • What rehabilitation services will I need?

  • Will I need specialized care after leaving the hospital?

  • What are my treatment goals for this week?

  • How can I prevent another stroke?

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Questions About Daily Activities

  • When can I start moving around?

  • What activities are safe for me to do?

  • Do I need assistance with personal care?

  • When can I resume normal eating and drinking?

  • What precautions should I take?

Preparing for Discharge (Before Leaving Hospital)

Medical Management Questions

  • What medications will I take home?

  • What is my medication schedule?

  • What follow-up appointments do I need?

  • Who should I call if I have concerns?

  • What warning signs should prompt immediate medical attention?

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Rehabilitation Questions

  • What types of therapy will I need (physical, occupational, speech)?

  • How often will I have therapy sessions?

  • What are my therapy goals?

  • How can I continue exercises at home?

  • What equipment will I need?

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Home Preparation Questions

  • What home modifications might I need?

  • What safety precautions should we take?

  • Do we need special equipment?

  • What level of assistance will I need?

  • Are there local resources for home modifications?

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Click the button below to locate Medicare-certified inpatient rehabilitation facilities near you and compare them based on the quality of care they offer:

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Image by Towfiqu barbhuiya

Early Home Recovery (First Month)

Daily Living Questions

  • What activities can I do independently?

  • When can I return to driving?

  • When can I return to work?

  • What dietary changes should I make?

  • How can I manage fatigue?

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Recovery Progress Questions

  • How will we measure my progress?

  • What goals should I set?

  • What can I do to speed my recovery?

  • Are there clinical trials I should consider?

  • When should I expect to see improvements?

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Emotional Health Questions

  • What emotional changes are common after stroke?

  • How can I cope with feelings of frustration or depression?

  • Are there support groups in my area?

  • When should I seek mental health support?

  • How can my family best support me emotionally?

Long-Term Recovery (Beyond First Month)

Ongoing Care Questions

  • How often do I need check-ups?

  • What risk factors should we monitor?

  • How can I prevent another stroke?

  • What lifestyle changes should I maintain?

  • How can I optimize my recovery long-term?

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Life Planning Questions

  • What are my options if I can't return to my previous work?

  • What social services are available?

  • How can I maintain my independence?

  • What legal or financial planning should I consider?

  • What long-term care options should I explore?

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Caring

For Caregivers

Essential Questions for Care Partners

  • What training do I need to help care for my loved one?

  • How can I balance caregiving with self-care?

  • What resources are available for caregivers?

  • How can I prevent caregiver burnout?

  • Where can I find respite care?

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Practical Support Questions

  • How can I help with medications and appointments?

  • What signs of complications should I watch for?

  • How can I support rehabilitation at home?

  • What is the best way to communicate with the healthcare team?

  • How can I help without overprotecting?

Tips for Making the Most of Healthcare Visits

  • Write down questions before appointments

  • Take notes during discussions

  • Bring a family member or friend for support

  • Ask for clarification if something isn't clear

  • Request written instructions when possible

  • Keep a recovery journal to track progress and concerns

Important Resources

  • American Stroke Association: www.stroke.org

  • Stroke Family Warmline: 1-888-4-STROKE (1-888-478-7653)

  • Local stroke support groups (ask your healthcare provider for recommendations)

  • State-specific resources for disability services

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