Definitions Applicable to 105 CMR 130.1401 through 130.1408

Acute Ischemic Stroke (a Subtype of Acute Stroke). An episode of neurological dysfunction caused by focal cerebral, spinal or retinal infarction. Acute Stroke. The relatively rapid onset of a focal neurological deficit with signs or symptoms persisting longer than 24 hours and not attributable to another disease process. Acute stroke includes both ischemic and intracerebral hemorrhage, and requires brain imaging to define the stroke subtype. Acute Stroke Expertise. At least two of the following: (1) completion of a stroke fellowship; (2) participation (as an attendee or faculty) in at least two regional, national, or international stroke courses or conferences each year; (3) eight or more continuing medical education (CME) credits each year in the area of cerebrovascular disease; or (4) other criteria approved by the governing body of the hospital. Acute Stroke Team. Physician(s), nurse(s), physician’s assistant(s), or nurse practitioner(s), and other health care professionals with acute stroke expertise available for prompt consultation available 24 hours per day, consistent with time targets acceptable to the Department. Intracerebral Hemorrhage. Non-traumatic intracranial hemorrhage within the ventricles or brain parenchyma, including hemorrhages from arterio-venous malformations but does not include subdural or epidural hemorrhage. Telestroke. The use of interactive technology (e.g. video conferencing) in the delivery of acute stroke care. Time Targets. Time frames established by the Department in guidelines.