The VA's National Telestroke Program (NTSP) is utilizing telehealth technologies to provide acute stroke care to Veterans at facilities lacking on-site neurologists. The program operates 24/7, ensuring year-round access to expert acute stroke care. Through telehealth, neurologists from the NTSP center evaluate patients remotely and provide treatment plans for on-site staff to implement. The training includes simulations in VA facilities, enhancing nurse residents' skills in responding to stroke cases promptly. This proactive approach aims to save lives by minimizing unnecessary hospital transfers and increasing care efficiency for Veterans.

Strokes, identified as the fifth leading cause of death and a primary cause of disability in the U.S., require swift intervention. The NTSP's telestroke training equips healthcare professionals with the tools to address stroke cases promptly, emphasizing the importance of time-sensitive care. Nurse residents participating in simulations gain valuable experience in dealing with stroke scenarios, fostering confidence and improving communication skills. The collaborative effort in these simulations receives praise for outstanding teamwork, emphasizing the significance of practicing remote collaboration, a crucial skill in the telehealth landscape.

The importance of Telestroke simulation training is highlighted for new graduate RN residents, providing them with exposure to the VA National Telestroke service and live telehealth assessments. The training enhances the ability to respond to stroke cases effectively while fostering remote collaboration skills. As part of the VA's commitment to health professions education, the NTSP contributes to setting standards and preparing future health professionals. Overall, the program ensures that stroke victims receive timely and expert care, contributing to positive outcomes and improved quality of life for Veterans.https://news.va.gov/127793/telestroke-training-caring-stroke-victims/