Introduction:
Dunghutti country is located within Australia’s number one “stroke hotspot”. First Nations peoples are disproportionately affected by stroke, with higher incidence, hospitalisation rates, and a greater risk of dying compared to non-First Nations Australians. Early recognition of symptoms is critical for people to access time sensitive medical interventions. To promote symptom recognition, an internationally recognised F.A.S.T (face, arm, speech, time) message was developed, however local awareness is limited. With the aim of raising Dunghutti community awareness of stroke symptoms, we aimed to develop a culturally responsive F.A.S.T message.
Methods:
Guided by a participatory action methodology, and the use of arts-based processes and Yarning as method, this research project involved six Dunghutti stroke survivors, a Dunghutti artist, masters of local Dunghutti language, and a non-First Nations Occupational Therapist/researcher. Throughout eight Yarning sessions, we reflected on the existing F.A.S.T message and through an interpretive narrative and artistic process, re-imagined that message in a culturally relevant way.
Results:
Yarning allowed us to explore key elements of an existing F.A.S.T message. Using this information, our team translated lived stroke experiences into a re-imagined F.A.S.T message, via culturally relevant artwork and narrative. This was further transformed into promotional items, shared amongst community via an array of messaging means, including the production of a short film, artwork and clothing, all supported through the collaborative efforts of the local health and educational institutions.
Conclusion:
By Re-imagining F.A.S.T, our project team have successfully developed a culturally responsive and relevant early warning signs of stroke message by and with the Dunghutti community.
Relevance to clinical practice or patient experience:
This grassroots health messaging campaign has successfully collaborated with local health and education services to develop a culturally relevant and responsive early warning signs of stroke message, encouraging better recognition and action when Dunghutti peoples experience stroke symptoms.