Abstract

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and disability worldwide, significantly impairing the functional abilities of survivors. Effective nursing interventions are essential to optimize recovery outcomes in stroke patients. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a clinical nursing care pathway on reducing functional disability in stroke patients admitted to critical care units in Gurugram, Haryana, India. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 30 stroke patients who were divided into two groups. The experimental group (n=15) received care based on a structured nursing care pathway, while the control group (n=15) received standard nursing care. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Barthel Index and Modified Rankin Scale after 72 hours of intervention. Results: Patients in the experimental group demonstrated significantly improved functional status compared to the control group. The application of the clinical nursing care pathway resulted in enhanced recovery, as evidenced by higher Barthel Index scores and lower Modified Rankin Scale scores in the experimental group. These findings suggest that a structured, evidence-based nursing approach contributes to better functional outcomes in stroke patients. Conclusion: Implementing a clinical nursing care pathway plays a crucial role in improving functional recovery in stroke patients. These findings underscore the importance of integrating structured nursing protocols into routine care to enhance stroke rehabilitation. Broader application of such pathways in India is warranted to optimize patient outcomes and reduce stroke-related disability.

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