Conclusion
This study, the first of its kind, aimed to explore the views of nursing and medical staff in relation to the enablers and barriers to implementation of the SSCB. The findings potentially offer a focus for the optimisation of not only the implementation of the SSCB but also other national improvement projects in the future. The findings are also potentially relevant to those with an improvement role in Scottish hospitals looking to increase local compliance with the SSCB and should be carefully considered for contextual relevance within their own area. As this is the first comprehensive qualitative assessment of the enablers and barriers to the implementation of the SSCB further research will be required, potentially at a national scale, to confirm or challenge this study’s findings and promote further understanding. Further evidence could ensure a more consistent application of the SSCB. Consideration should be given to the development of a simple education programme about the SSCB and the evidence base which supports it. The development of permanent stroke nurse coordinator roles or alternatively direct admission to stroke units should also be considered. Stroke care should be prioritised both locally and nationally and this should be evidenced through stroke having a significant presence in local and national governance agendas.
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