What is the appropriate door to needle time for ischemic embolic stroke?

For patients experiencing an ischemic embolic stroke, the goal is to restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain as swiftly as possible to minimize neurological damage. The recommended door-to-needle time refers to the duration from a patient's arrival at the hospital to the administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), the standard treatment for eligible patients with an ischemic stroke.

The ideal target for door-to-needle time in these cases is within 1 hour. This rapid administration is crucial because the efficacy of tPA diminishes significantly after 4.5 hours from the onset of symptoms, although earlier intervention often leads to better outcomes. Stroke centers aim for a target of administering tPA within this 1-hour window to optimize the chances of recovery and reduce long-term effects.

Choices suggesting longer intervals do not align with the best practices established in stroke management guidelines, which emphasize the importance of time in treating ischemic strokes effectively. The focus is on early identification, prompt transport, and efficient medical intervention. Thus, the target of 1 hour is established based on international guidelines and research that highlight improved patient outcomes when treatment is initiated quickly.