This self-directed learning module highlights recent developments in the acute care of stroke patients, prediction of outcome after stroke, evaluation of risk factors, secondary prevention of stroke, and the evaluation of the young adult with stroke. It is part of the study guide on stroke and neurodegenerative disorders in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This article contains sections on the acute evaluation and management of the stroke patient, prediction of functional outcome after stroke, and secondary prevention of stroke. Special emphasis is given to the evaluation of the young adult with stroke.
Overall article objectives: (a) To summarize the acute evaluation and management of stroke, particularly in the young stroke patient; and (b) to review the risk factors for stroke and secondary prevention measures.