Respiratory and Urinary Complications Associated With Stroke: Scientific Evidence and Implications for Nursing Care

Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and functional disability worldwide and is associated with several complications throughout its clinical course. Among these complications, respiratory alterations, particularly aspiration pneumonia related to dysphagia, and urinary tract infections stand out due to their impact on patient outcomes. In this context, nursing plays a fundamental role in early risk identification, prevention of adverse events, and implementation of systematic care practices. Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence regarding the main respiratory and urinary complications associated with stroke, highlighting the implications for nursing care and the contribution of the Nursing Process (NP) to improving healthcare quality. Method: This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on scientific studies available in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), and Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE/PubMed) databases. Publications addressing stroke, respiratory and urinary complications, prevention strategies, and nursing interventions were considered. Results: The analyzed literature indicates that respiratory complications, especially aspiration pneumonia, are strongly associated with neurogenic dysphagia and impaired airway protection mechanisms. Urinary complications are mainly related to neurological impairment, reduced mobility, bladder dysfunction, and the use of urinary catheters. The studies highlight that nursing interventions, including aspiration risk assessment, safe feeding practices, clinical monitoring, appropriate device management, and implementation of the Nursing Process (NP), contribute to preventing complications and improving patient safety. Conclusion: Evidence demonstrates that preventing respiratory and urinary complications after stroke requires systematic care based on continuous assessment and scientifically supported practices. Nursing practice, combined with the implementation of Nursing Care Systematization, represents an essential strategy for reducing adverse events, improving care quality, and promoting better clinical and functional outcomes.