Stroke; a journal of cerebral circulation
-
The purpose of this statement is to delineate basic expectations regarding primary palliative care competencies and skills to be considered, learned, and practiced by providers and healthcare services across hospitals and community settings when caring for patients and families with stroke. ⋯ Addressing the palliative care needs of patients and families throughout the course of illness can complement existing practices and improve the quality of life of stroke patients, their families, and their care providers. There is an urgent need for further research in this area.