Abstract TP010: Simulation-Based Training for Faster Neurology Team Engagement, Reducing Door to Arterial Puncture and Clot Engagement Time

Background: In large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes, approximately 1.9 million neurons and 14 billion synapses are lost per minute of ischemia, underscoring the need for rapid recognition and intervention. It is of paramount importance that LVO is promptly recognized to provide timely and effective acute stroke management. The purpose of this quality improvement project is to improve LVO identification and expedite neurointerventional care. Methods: A simulation-based training program using the FANG mnemonic (Field Cut, Aphasia, Neglect, Gaze Preference) was implemented for neurology residents and advanced practice providers (APPs). A retrospective analysis compared stroke intervention times six months before (Jan–Jun 2024) and after (Jul–Dec 2024) implementation. Data was extracted from the Get With The Guidelines-Stroke database and supplemented by manual data abstraction. Primary outcomes were times for door-to-neuro IR activation, door-to-arterial puncture, and door-to-clot engagement. A one-tailed Student’s t-test for two independent means assessed differences. Statistical significance was defined as p = 0.05. Results: Simulation training significantly improved stroke intervention times. Door-to-neuro IR activation decreased by 12.5 minutes (35.2%, p = 0.015), and door-to-arterial puncture decreased by 10.5 minutes (11.9%, p = 0.04). Door-to-clot engagement decreased by 6.5 minutes (6.2%) and showed a non-significant trend toward improvement (p = 0.07). Conclusion: Simulation-based training enhanced LVO recognition and significantly reduced critical intervention times. These findings support incorporating simulation into stroke training programs to improve outcomes. Future studies should further quantify the long-term impact of such training and explore its integration into accredited stroke programs for APPs and faculty