(A reflection on experience of six years of existence of the Shisong Cardiac Centre.)

FANKA TANLAKA MARCEL, RN, CCP

Cardiac Centre – Saint Elizabeth Catholic General Hospital Shisong

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Introduction: A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or severelyreduced, depriving the brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. According to WHO, 15 millionpeople suffer from stroke worldwide each year. Of these, 5 million die and another 5 million are permanently disabled.

According to WHO data (May 2014), stroke death in Cameroon reached 10,889 or

5.03% of total deaths. The age adjusted death rate is 115.50 per 100,000 of population and

ranks number 62 in the World.

Background: Over the years Cameroon and Africa as a whole has witness a rapid growth towards‘modernism’. There has been significant consumption of synthetic foodstuff, reduced physicalactivity compared to the past nomadic lifestyle, farming and trekking. Iatrogenic consequenceshave been on the rise. The only evidence of these kinds of changes, embraced by poverty is anincreased in variety of diseases. Stroke, better still as cerebro-vascular accident remains aclearing example of a modern disease, modern in its growth compared to a decade back. Thespecialized nurse is challenge to show greater concern in such a reality --evidence base care.

Shisong Cardiac Centre inaugurated in November 2009, 6 years ago, has a health story to tell.

Methods:Retrospective review of the past 6 years statistics. Role of nurse of nurse in the care ofpatient’s with stroke. Role of the caregiver and significant others in the provision of care.

Results (Findings): Morbidity and mortality rate, success rate, trend of stroke amongst the Cameroonianpopulation. Decubitus ulcer as a common complication and other challenges.

Recommendations: Preventive measures proposed.

Conclusions: Stroke is a medical emergency. With few minutes brain cells begin to die. Prompttreatment is crucial. Early action can minimize brain damage and potential complications. Thegood news is that strokes can be treated and prevented.

Key words: Evidenced base approach, Stroke