OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to outline the requirements and recommendations for establishing specialized stroke treatment units.

METHODS: The criteria for specialized stroke treatment units were categorized into seven areas and analyzed based on existing recommendations and guidelines. These areas included infrastructure, early diagnosis, diagnostic and therapeutic infrastructure, therapeutic interventions, multidisciplinary mobilization and rehabilitation, expertise of medical staff, and emergency departments.

RESULTS: The infrastructure of a specialized stroke treatment unit should consist of two functional segments: Segment A for acute phase treatment and monitoring, and Segment B for post-acute phase treatment. Rapid neurological assessment and access to a neurologist or internist trained in stroke treatment are crucial within 30 minutes of admission. Diagnostic procedures such as CT scans, echocardiography, and Doppler or duplex sonography should be available within specific timeframes. Therapeutic interventions, including thrombolysis and thrombectomy, should be initiated promptly. Multidisciplinary mobilization and rehabilitation should be provided, addressing nursing care, physiotherapy, speech therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and patient education. The expertise of physicians and nursing staff should be continuously developed through training programs.

CONCLUSIONS: The establishment of specialized stroke treatment units requires adherence to specific requirements and recommendations. These units should have appropriate infrastructure, rapid and accurate diagnostic procedures, efficient therapeutic interventions, and multidisciplinary mobilization and rehabilitation. Ongoing training of medical staff is essential to maintain expertise. Access to emergency departments with trained professionals is crucial for continuous stroke care. Implementing these recommendations can improve stroke treatment outcomes and enhance patient recovery.