As the first certified stroke center in Kentucky, University Hospital provides stroke patients with an aggressive and unique approach to stroke assessment by providing a "fast track" system. The system is designed to diagnose a stroke and begin treatment quickly - saving precious time and, therefore, brain.
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Here, in the middle of the Stroke Belt, as it is called, is University Hospital's new critical care stroke unit. This new unit is equipped with the most advanced technology to care for stroke patients. And, it is staffed with the most qualified and dedicated stroke team to ensure quick response and advanced treatment for stroke, because time saved is brain saved.
The $1.4-million investment gives the University Hospital Stroke Team, formed in 2002, a dedicated unit for furthered focus on the care of its stroke patients. The new dedicated 6-bed unit offers stroke patients enhancements to the current advanced care provided by the University Hospital Stroke team. Those include
Quicker turn-around time from Emergency Department to a stroke bed
Specialized stroke-trained nursing staff
Twice-a-day rounding (at night using remote presence network)
Dual purpose beds (ICU & PCU) allow patient to stay in one room while conditions improve
Most importantly the new unit offers patients the hope of better outcomes. Studies published by the American Stroke Association conclude that dedicated stroke units provide improved outcomes for stroke patients by decreasing complications and the length of stay while increasing the return home ratio, mobility, and survivor rates.
The Joint Commission accredited Stroke Center has an in-house team of specialists available 24-hours a day, seven days a week to meet the needs of stroke patients. The interdisciplinary team consists of
Neurologists
Emergency medicine physicians
Neuro interventionalists
Neurosurgeons
Neuroradiologists
Care coordinators
Critical care physicians
Cardiologists
Critical care physicians
Nurses
Occupational therapists
Physical therapists
Speech therapists
Nutritionists
Diabetic educator
Social workers
The new stroke unit is an enhancement to the already exceptional, expert care patients expect at Uof L Health Care, the region's leading academic medical center.