Quality in Acute Stroke Care (QASC) Australia trial

The Quality in Acute Stroke Care (QASC) Australia trial is now recruiting sites. This trial is supporting systematic implementation of the Fever, Sugar, Swallow (FeSS) Protocols across stroke units and services nationally. All stroke units and stroke services are eligible to participate.

This study is being led by Professor Sandy Middleton from the Nursing Research Institute (NRI) (a joint initiative between St Vincent’s Health Network Sydney, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne and Australian Catholic University) in collaboration with research and clinical colleagues in Australia.

What is the project about?

The QASC Australia Project aims to support introduction of Fever, Sugar (hyperglycaemia) and Swallow (FeSS) Protocols nationally.

Why should your stroke unit/service be part of this project?

The QASC Trial (2005–2011) showed that supporting clinicians to implement the FeSS Protocols reduced death and dependency in patients after stroke by 16% and is cost-effective.

How will the project work?

• Hospitals will be randomised to different types of support to implement the FeSS Protocols.
• The project will run over two years.

What do you have to do?

• Nominate a site clinical champion.
• Assist with governance site-specific approvals.
• Undertake patient medical record audits pre- and post-implementation.
• Implement FeSS Protocols.

What will we provide for you?

• Hospitals will be provided with resources to implement the FeSS Protocols.
• Site-specific summary reports on stroke care according to the FeSS Protocols
   

To learn more about the QASC Australia trial, visit www.acu.edu.au/qascaus or watch the video below:

If you would like to participate in the QASC Australia trial, please register your interest by sending us an email at QASC@acu.edu.au