Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of permanent disability among adults worldwide. Given that the duration of cerebral ischemia is directly correlated with the risk of permanent disability, rapid and efficient screening by a well-trained healthcare team is crucial. Previous worldwide studies observed low recognition of the major stroke symptoms, risk factors, sequelae and acute stroke management among HCPs, and few studies were found regarding the knowledge of health professionals about stroke management in the Brazilian population.

This study aimed to assess HCPs' knowledge of stroke in health facilities in Southern Brazil to identify knowledge gaps that could inform future training initiatives. The primary objective was to evaluate HCPs' knowledge of stroke pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, emergency management, risk factors, and prevention. A secondary objective was to analyze the impact of previous stroke training and professional experience on knowledge levels.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in public health facilities in Southern Brazil. A total of 296 HCPs participated, including physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and nursing assistants. Participants completed a validated questionnaire assessing stroke knowledge. Responses were categorized as adequate or inadequate based on established criteria. Statistical analyses included Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests for group comparisons and Spearman correlation for experience-related knowledge trends.

The overall correct response rate was 46.6%. Physicians and medical interns had significantly higher scores than other professional groups (p < 0.03). Nursing assistants demonstrated the lowest accuracy (36.1%). Participants who had attended stroke training scored higher (52.2% vs. 45.1%, p = 0.039). A negative correlation was observed between years of professional experience and knowledge levels (? = -0.275, p = 0.00), suggesting a decline in knowledge retention over time. Only 33.4% of participants accurately described thrombolysis, and just 6.7% knew the correct therapeutic window for its administration. However, 75% correctly identified stroke prevention strategies.

Significant knowledge gaps about stroke exist among HCPs, particularly non-physicians, emphasizing the need for targeted education and continuous training programs. Future studies should assess the effectiveness of different educational approaches and expand research to other Brazilian regions.

The study highlights the urgent need for ongoing professional development in stroke management. Findings support integrating stroke education into undergraduate curricula and continuing education programs for practicing HCPs. Public policies should promote systematic training efforts to enhance early stroke recognition and management, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing stroke-related disability and mortality in Brazil.