Sunday, November 8, 2026

9:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Ballroom 1 and 2

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Overview

Rusmiza Binti Amin

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Details

Purpose To profile post-stroke visual impairments, current vision assessment protocols, management and referral within an acute stroke setting in Sydney. Methods A retrospective audit of electronic medical records (EMRs) for patients admitted to the stroke unit at Prince of Wales Hospital between 1st January 2024 to 31st May 2025 was conducted. Data extracted from EMRs included demographics, vision and ocular signs and symptoms, vision screening and assessment, and outcomes including internal and external referral. Results Of 401 patients registered in the stroke unit, 296 (74%) had signs or symptoms of visual impairment following the stroke event. Suspected visual impairments included visual field defect (44%), impaired central vision (36%), ocular motility disorders such as, strabismus, gaze palsy and nystagmus (53%), and visual inattention or other visual-perception disorders (42%). Stroke screening tools were administered to 79% of those admitted, and 76% had neurofunctional screening by an occupational therapist. However, only 16% (n=65) received a formal vision assessment within the stroke ward and 7% (n=29) were internally referred to the eye clinic. A diagnosis of visual impairment was made in 21% (n=85) of cases and 14% (n=57) were externally referred for further vision care. Conclusions Despite a high rate of visual signs and symptoms, there was limited vision screening and formal assessment conducted within acute stroke care. There was a similarly low rate of both internal and external referral for vision care. Untreated vision impairment is likely to impact rehabilitation efforts and lead to reduced independence and quality of life for stroke survivors discharged into the community.

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Speaker