Question

As the stroke program coordinator, what is the best course of action to address the increased door-to-needle times associated with Dr. X's disapproval of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)?

A. Discuss this situation with all the ED nurses and reassure them that Dr. X is incorrect and outdated in her opinion.
B. Ask the ED medical director to limit Dr. X's involvement in stroke patient cases.
C. Present data to your program medical director and suggest they review with Dr. X.
D. At the next stroke alert, ask Dr. X why she does not like tPA.

Answer 1

Presenting data to the medical director about the effectiveness of tPA and suggesting a review with Dr. X is a professional course of action that can address increased door-to-needle times.

Step-by-step explanation:

When addressing the increased door-to-needle times associated with Dr. X's disapproval of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), the best course of action is C. Present data to your program medical director and suggest they review with Dr. X. This professional approach involves using data to support the efficacy of tPA in improving patient outcomes when administered promptly after a thrombotic stroke. Thrombolytic agents like tPA are crucial for clot breakdown and restoration of blood flow, particularly in the 'golden hours' following an ischemic event. Providing evidence-based medicine and involving the medical director adheres to appropriate clinical governance and promotes constructive dialogue over individual physician practices that may be affecting patient care negatively.