The psychological sequelae of transient ischaemic attack: the development of a preliminary screening tool

摘要: While much research has been conducted into the psychosocial impact of stroke, rather less attention directed to Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA). Two points are particular relevance this thesis: firstly, both TIA and subjective distress established precursors secondary stroke; secondly, treatment that incorporates patient’s perspective is demonstrably more effective. Together, suggests early identification patients’ psychological reactions could inform tailored intervention post-diagnosis, thus potentially reducing adverse consequences TIA. This study aimed develop a psychometrically-robust preliminary screening tool facilitate recognition dysfunctional Consistent with orthodox psychometric theory, test construction, various data-types methodologies were used capture experiences. Using three different epistemological approaches (combined qualitative/quantitative Q-methodology, qualitative repertory grid analysis, quantitative factor analysis) remarkable thematic consistency in patient experiences emerged. These formed basis instrument, which 21 questions forced-choice, paired-comparison format, permitting weighted responses indicate significance each theme patient. Early small-scale use indicates its usability reliability; further work required establish clinical value for larger sample.