With the recent widening of the thrombolytic window from ≤3 hours to ≤4.5 hours for ischemic strokes, I wanted to review the contraindications for thrombolytics (rtPA). To review the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS), go to the Paucis Verbis card on NIHSS.
Thanks to Dr. Jason Nomura for making this card and summarizing the long list of exclusion criteria. If anyone has a practical topic, algorithm, or table, please feel free to share! I'd be happy to format and upload into the PV series.
Great graphic from UCLA Stroke Center:
(Addendum 11/4/10)
Feel free to download this card and print on a 4'' x 6'' index card.
References
NINDS (1995). Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Acute Ischemic Stroke New England Journal of Medicine, 333 (24), 1581-1588 DOI: 10.1056/NEJM199512143332401
del Zoppo, G., Saver, J., Jauch, E., Adams, H., & , . (2009). Expansion of the Time Window for Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke With Intravenous Tissue Plasminogen Activator: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Stroke, 40 (8), 2945-2948 DOI: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.109.192535
NINDS (1995). Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Acute Ischemic Stroke New England Journal of Medicine, 333 (24), 1581-1588 DOI: 10.1056/NEJM199512143332401
