The Circle of Willis, Aneurysms and Subarachnoid Haemorrhages: a Historical Narrative of Parallels from Observation to Intervention

The history of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) is far from modern, spanning close to 5000 years. There are many parallels and references to epidemiological principles that remain current today and are central to modern nursing research techniques. The importance of epidemiology in nursing cannot be overestimated, nursing practice closely aligns with the ultimate goals of epidemiological principle in the promotion of health and reduction of disease related risk factors. Despite nursing holding the conceptual key to enriching epidemiological research, nursing has historically distanced itself from front line epidemiological research, often hesitant about both capability and clinical expertise in leading epidemiological research. The following historical narrative serves as a reminder of how far we have come in the diagnosis, treatment and care of individuals post aSAH as well as serving as inspiration for future nursing research.