QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: THE PROVISION OF COVID-19 VACCINATIONS TO INPATIENTS ON THE ACUTE STROKE UNIT

ABSTRACT

Background and aims: As the Omicron variant emerged and became prevalent within the UK, an increased risk of nosocomial COVID-19 infection presented itself in this busy London Stroke Unit. This posed particular risk to the Acute Stroke Unit patients some of whom had been inpatients for up to five months and therefore missed the opportunity for vaccination under the nationwide scheme, or who had not taken up the vaccine when offered in the past. An improvement project was undertaken to provide inpatient vaccination to these vulnerable patients. Results: Of the 18 patients admitted to the unit at the beginning of December 2021, 60% had not received the full complement of COVID vaccinations. 22% of patients had not received any doses of COVID vaccination. 7 patients were identified for vaccination in the first round. 3 others would have been eligible but unfortunately tested positive prior to the first vaccination date. Informed consent was gained from those patients with capacity (40%). Next of kin were informed for the remaining patients, with a best interest decision made to proceed. The vaccination status of patients is to be reviewed in weekly Multidisciplinary Team Meetings. Conclusions: Assessment of COVID vaccination status for long term patients will play a key role in the prevention of nosocomial infection in Stroke patients and should be undertaken where possible.