IntroductionThe purpose of this essay is to discuss Mary, a 75-year-old retired teacher with a history of obesity and hypertension, who, a months ago, suffered an ischemic stroke. In accordance with Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) (2011) privacy guidelines, the identity of the service user has been kept anonymous using the pseudonym 'Mary'. Connected with Mary, the author will discuss the risk and resilience factors associated with stroke, the impact of vulnerability on disease, and the appropriate level of care that makes a difference in recovery. The World Health Organization (2013) explains that an ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel becomes blocked by a clot, reducing the supply of oxygen to the brain and consequently damaging the tissues. The reason Mary was selected for this discussion is: The author wants to expand her evidence-based knowledge of stroke, as it is the leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of death in breast of the Scottish population (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN), 2008) and, therefore, a national priority. In response to this priority, the Scottish Government (2009) produced its 'Action Plan for Better Heart Disease and Stroke Care'. Additionally, they introduced a HEAT target to ensure that 90% of stroke patients are transferred to a specialist stroke unit on the day of admission to hospital (Scottish Government, 2012). Vulnerability, risk and resilience Lloyd and Heller (2012) discuss the link between vulnerability and vulnerability. to people who, for a period of time, may need help from health and social services because they are unable to care for themselves physically, mentally and emotionally. Mary's post-stroke symptoms include right side...... middle of paper ...... Invulnerable to other risks; however, a person's resilience can affect how they cope in a vulnerable situation (Edward, 2013). Additionally, the nurse's ability to provide excellent person-centered care, using appropriate interpersonal skills while demonstrating compassion, can have a major impact on recovery (Dewar, Pullin, & Tocheris, 2011) . This module allowed the author to understand the concept of vulnerability, risk and resilience in relation to stroke. This will therefore contribute to their professional development and lifelong learning (NES, 2012). Additionally, the author has gained evidence-based knowledge in person-centered care, compassion, and self-awareness; all of which can be used to inform future practice (Miller, 2008). Therefore, she will be able to provide the appropriate level of care that can make a difference in a person's recovery..