eISSN 2097-6054 ISSN 1672-9234 CN 11-5289/R
Responsible Institution:China Association for Science and Technology
Publishing:Chinese Nursing Journals Publishing House Co.,Ltd.
Sponsor:Chinese Nursing Association
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China Academic Journals Full-text Database
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Chinese Journal of Nursing Education ›› 2026, Vol. 23 ›› Issue (3): 350-356.doi: 10.3761/j.issn.1672-9234.2026.03.015

• Health Education and Health Promotion • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Mapping the disease management journey of young and middle-aged patients with first-ever ischemic stroke

LÜ Peihua1(), ZHOU Xueying1,*(), GUO Yuanli1, MA Keke1, HAO Juanjuan1, LIU Yanjin2   

  1. 1. Department of Neurology,the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University,Zhengzhou 450052,China
    2. Department of Nursing,the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University,Zhengzhou 450052,China
  • Received:2025-08-08 Online:2026-03-15 Published:2026-03-17
  • Contact: *ZHOU Xueying,E-mail:1814225709@qq.com
  • Supported by:
    Province-Ministry Co-constructed Project of Henan Provincial Science and Technology Tackling Plan(SBGJ202103074)

Abstract:

Objective To identify behaviors,challenges,and needs in the disease management process of young and middle-aged patients with first-episode ischemic stroke using journey mapping,thereby providing a reference for optimizing comprehensive care services for this population. Methods A descriptive qualitative research approach was employed. Twelve middle-aged and young patients with first-time ischemic stroke were selected between January and May,2024. Each participant underwent three semi-structured interviews:one day before discharge,and at 3 and 6 months post-discharge. Data were analyzed using content analysis to construct patient journey maps. Results A patient journey map was constructed,with the timeline delineated across four phases:taking the initial diagnosis and treatment decision-making,healthcare-provider-patient collaborative management,self-management establishment,and social function reconstruction. Behaviors,challenges,and needs formed the vertical dimensions of analysis. A total of 24 themes were synthesized across these phases,and the journey map was graphically developed. Conclusion The disease management journey for young and middle-aged patients with first-time ischemic stroke is lengthy and complex,with distinct phase-specific characteristics. Healthcare providers should implement comprehensive,continuous,and precise support strategies to meet patient needs and resolve challenges in disease management.

Key words: Journey Mapping, Young and Middle-Aged Adults, Ischemic Stroke, Disease Management, Nursing