Stroke service is improving patients’ chances of recovery

Every minute counts when treating a stroke, which is why the dedicated stroke team at Wonthaggi Hospital is providing its time-critical response faster than ever before.

Through participation in Safer Care Victoria's Enhancing Stroke Care Collaborative, the team has reduced the time taken to deliver appropriate care and treatment to patients experiencing a stroke.

With more than 80 people treated for stroke at Wonthaggi Hospital this year alone, Stroke Coordinator Ella Roos said, “early intervention can reduce the risk of long-term disability and the length of time spent in hospital.”

“To help us achieve this, we provide a multi-team approach to stroke care, from their arrival at the emergency department and throughout their hospital journey.”

If they require inpatient rehabilitation, patients are cared for in Wonthaggi Hospital’s sub-acute service. They are supervised by Associate Professor Dr Barry Rawicki, Rehabilitation Physician, while undergoing rehabilitation with a skilled care team of nursing and allied health staff.

This service caters for the wider region including Korumburra, Leongatha and surrounds and sometimes Kooweerup, until patients are able to be discharged from hospital. Allied health professionals from across Bayside Health Regional’s sites can review stroke patients in the community to support them at home.

This Stroke Week (3 to 9 August), Ella is encouraging members of the public to become familiar with the signs of stroke and how to respond.

This includes the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke: Face drooped, Arms can’t be raised, Speech slurred or confused, and Time is critical. Call 000. To learn more, go to: strokefoundation.org.au