Timely delivery of care in neurological emergencies: can standardized management protocols help?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the evidence that supports the implementation of goal-directed care bundle protocols to improve outcomes from neurocritical conditions, and of the possible advantage of specific over generalized protocols.

RECENT FINDINGS: Articles from January 1, 2023 to July 31, 2024 were searched to evaluate the effectiveness of standardized management in neurological emergencies. The use of care bundles and standardized protocols with time- and target-related metrics has shown benefit in patients with acute stroke and traumatic brain injury.

SUMMARY: A goal-directed care protocol to guide standard management implemented by a multidisciplinary team can improve outcomes from neurological emergencies. However, implementation challenges need to be addressed before wide adoption of protocolized care for maximum benefit to populations.