The functional outcomes of home versus hospital rehabilitation program in stroke patients : a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

OBJECTIVE : To evaluate the proportion of the stroke patients who are improved to the independent stage in six months, comparing the home and hospital program. DESIGN : A randomized controlled trial study design. SETTING : Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department of Srinagarind Hospital. This is a tertiary care center. METHODOLOGY : 84 ischemic stroke patients who have a level of conscious to follow 2-3 step commands was included in this study. They were allocated by randomization into 2 groups. Group 1 : 42 patients were treated by rehabilitation staff in the hospital. Group 2 : 42 patients were treated by relative at home. The relative was taught by rehabilitation staff. The outcomes were classified into 2 groups : independent group and dependent group. The patients were assessed every until 6 months by a blind observer. RESULTS : 2 patients in the hospital program and 2 patients in the home program lost to follow up. 80 patients were divided into 2 group ; 40 patients in the hospital program, 40 patients in the home program. There were 35 (87.5%) independent, 5(12.5%) dependent patient in the hospital program and 28 (70%) independent, 8(20%) dependent and 4 dead patients in the home program. There was no statistical significant difference in functional outcomes, who receive home and hospital rehabilitation treatment (P = 0.064). CONCLUSION : To reduce cost of treatment and work load of staff, the home program will be preferred in the future.