Being Stroke Ready Could Be Lifesaving

Seconds matter when someone is experiencing a stroke. That’s why the Saint Joseph Mount Sterling Emergency Department has trained caregivers who can identify and take quick action when patients exhibiting signs of stroke come to them.

The hospital last year once again received Stroke Ready Certification through the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), an internationally recognized accrediting body that recognizes health care organizations demonstrating compliance with national standards. 

Access to that expert care close to home is critical. Saint Joseph Mount Sterling provides first-response treatment to stroke patients when rapid action and proper medications can help save lives and prevent long-term disability. Caregivers also coordinate immediate transfer to nearby Primary Stroke Centers for more comprehensive support. 

Know the Signs – BE FAST

When it comes to stroke, it’s important to BE FAST, and that doesn’t just refer to action. The acronym from the American Stroke Association is a quick reference point in recognizing stroke – Balance, Eyes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911.

First, is the person having trouble with balance? Are they having blurred or double vision? Do you notice drooping on one side of the person’s face, and can they smile? Next, can they raise both arms or is there numbness or weakness? Are they having difficulty speaking? If you see any of those signs along with symptoms like dizziness, loss of balance, severe headache, and trouble seeing out of one or both eyes, it’s time to call 911.

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked. The most common type of stroke is an ischemic stroke, the formation of blood clots. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a weak blood vessel ruptures in the brain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke, and every 3 minutes and 14 seconds, someone dies of a stroke. 

Stroke treatments that work best are available only if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within three hours of the first symptoms, so acting quickly and seeking help is crucial. Remember to note the time when symptoms first appear, as this information is critical to health care providers. If you’re experiencing stroke symptoms, call 911 for immediate help. 

Lower Your Risk for Stroke

Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and obesity are the leading causes of stroke. Making lifestyle changes can help to lower your risk for a stroke. 

• Eat healthy foods low in saturated fats, trans fat, sodium, and cholesterol and high in fiber, like plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. 

• Get regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. 

• Don’t smoke – cigarette smoking greatly increases your chances of stroke. 

• Limit your alcohol intake since drinking too much can raise your blood pressure. Men should limit alcohol to two drinks per day, and women should have no more than one per day. 

• Have your physician test your blood pressure regularly and check cholesterol levels at least once every five years.

The Saint Joseph Mount Sterling Emergency Department team is trained to act quickly and efficiently while providing high quality care to patients seeking help for stroke symptoms. 

When it comes to stroke, time lost is brain lost. If you are experiencing signs of a stroke, the Saint Joseph Mount Sterling team is ready to help. BE FAST to ensure you and a loved one receive timely and lifesaving stroke care.

When it comes to stroke, time lost is brain lost. We provide first-response treatment to stroke patients when rapid action and proper medications can help save lives and prevent long-term disability. Learn more about emergency services at Saint Joseph Mount Sterling.