The study conducted at Witrand Hospital in Potchefstroom explored the impact of
HIV status on the outcome of stroke survivors. The ability to perform activities of daily
living (ADLs) was assessed to determine the rate and nature of recovery of the HIVpositive
and HIV-negative stroke survivors.
There was no difference in the rate and nature of recovery between the two groups
upon admission and discharge. However, a difference in the rate and nature of
recovery was noticed during the period from discharge to one month after discharge.
The HIV-negative group showed more significant improvement as compared to the
HIV-positive group, while the HIV-positive group showed a decline in their function
over the period.
Because the sample size was small, generalisation of the results must be made with
caution. Further investigation is needed to determine the reason the HIV-positive
group had a decline in function during the month after discharge.