Introduction
The "Time is Brain" award was introduced across 23 regional and remote Telestroke sites in NSW to reinforce positive actions, strengthen teamwork, and encourage continuous improvement in door-to-needle (DTN) times within a telehealth context.
Methods
A total of 176 surveys across 17 sites were distributed to code stroke team members who had received an award for DTN times of less than 60 mins. The survey used qualitative feedback and a Likert scale to assess the award’s impact on teamwork, motivation, and efficiency during code strokes.
Results
The survey achieved a 16% response rate, comprising of responses from ED nurses, radiographers, paramedics, Stroke Care Coordinators, and ED doctors. 78% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the award increased awareness and efficiency during code strokes, 98% agreed it highlighted the importance of teamwork, and 71% felt motivated to improve practice and efficiency. Qualitative feedback reflected these sentiments, with comments such as “Better teamwork and flow,” “We work together more efficiently,” and “More awareness to door-to-needle time.”
Discussion
The award demonstrated a positive effect on staff perceptions of teamwork, motivation, and efficiency in hyperacute stroke care. Results suggest that recognition programs can effectively reinforce desired behaviours and foster a culture of collaboration within virtual care teams. The diversity of respondents highlights the award’s influence across multiple disciplines, and the observed increase in motivation aligns with literature supporting positive reinforcement in healthcare quality improvement, particularly in time-sensitive interventions like thrombolysis.
Conclusion
The "Time is Brain" award has been well received by regional and remote emergency teams in NSW, enhancing motivation, teamwork, and efficiency in acute stroke management.
Relevance to clinical practice
Simple, low-cost recognition initiatives can drive quality improvement within both local and virtual healthcare networks delivering hyperacute stroke care.