Publication
Management of post-stroke fatigue: an Australian health professional survey
Publisher:
Informa UK Limited
Date:
11-11-2023
DOI:
10.1080/09638288.2022.2143578
Abstract: Evidence for post-stroke fatigue management is limited. We aimed to explore how Australian health professionals assess and assist fatigue management. Our objectives were to identify fatigue assessment tools and interventions used, explore clinician's confidence managing fatigue and explore whether management of post-stroke fatigue differs from management of fatigue related to other conditions. An online cross-sectional survey was completed by Australian health professionals ( Routine use of formal fatigue assessment tools was low (17%, Few Australian health professionals formally assess post-stroke fatigue. Management is multidisciplinary and based on evidence from fatigue management in other conditions.Implications for rehabilitationMost health professionals are not routinely using formal assessment tools for fatigue, possibly due to a lack of consensus on best practice in research.Common strategies recommended by health professionals include energy optimisation strategies, education and exercise.Comprehensive guidelines for post-stroke fatigue management are yet to be established.Health professionals should assess post-stroke fatigue using a validated tool to ensure an in idualised approach to management based on the current available clinical guidelines.