But you're not telling us how many 100% recovered(the only goal in stroke). Are you ashamed of the answer? Survivors don't care about the 'care' they are receiving, they want recovery! GET THERE!
Local Integrated Stroke Unit celebrates 10 years
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In 2013, Elke Hilgendag and Dr. Catherine Ballyk of the Brant Community Healthcare System were part of a team who collaborated to support the opening of an Integrated Stroke Unit and enhance the care provided for stroke patients throughout Brantford, Brant County, Norfolk, and Haldimand Counties.
“We opened a 20-bed Integrated Stroke Unit specifically for stroke patients – 10 acute beds and 10 rehabilitation beds – which ensured stroke patients received both their acute and rehabilitation care on the same unit, by the same team. Today, I’m proud to say we still have some of the same staff working on the unit.”
Dr. Ballyk is the co-physician lead for the stroke program, which has expanded over the years.
“Once in the hospital, stroke patients are on an integrated stroke unit dedicated solely to stroke care,” Dr. Ballyk said. “At the time we were one of only two hospitals doing this in Ontario.”
The BGH Integrated Stroke Unit ensures patients receive seamless transition between acute and rehabilitation from a collaborative network of providers. Every team member has a key role in the recovery of the patient, including physicians and nurses with specialized training in stroke and rehabilitation. As well, Speech Language Pathology, Occupational and Physiotherapy, Social Work, Dietitian, Pharmacy, Respiratory Therapy, Personal Support Workers and the Home and Community Care coordinator are all part of the integrated stroke team.
Often stroke care begins in the emergency department and Dr. Ballyk is quick to praise the members who are quick to recognize and diagnose stroke, including the radiologists. “We have a very strong interdisciplinary team who help our stroke patients.”
“Stroke neurology consultation services are provided through the regional centre at Hamilton General Hospital. And our best practice lead ensures we are always current with stroke education.”
Understanding the type of stroke a patient suffered, and the level of impairment is important because it directs the plan of care.
Hilgendag says, “The complexity of stroke care is significant. We conduct daily rounds where we review assessment findings and determine next steps for our patients. This ensures clear communication and planning among all the team members.”
Today, the BGH Integrated Stroke Unit cares for 400 patients a year. After discharge from the inpatient program, many patients continue their therapy goals in the community or outpatient rehabilitation program.
“Our team is very committed to each and every patient,” Hilgendag said. “Our patients and their family are at the centre of everything we do.”
“Often when patients arrive on the unit, they are unable to speak, swallow, dress themselves, or walk. It’s amazing to see the functional improvements our patients can make with intense support from our team and their families. On the day of their discharge, we reflect on their time in the hospital, how much progress they have made. There are many cheers and tears.”
Dr. Ballyk adds, “I have been very fortunate to have the privilege of working alongside dedicated caregivers who love what they do.”
Hospital Insider is written by Gary Chalk who assists with communications for the Brant Community Healthcare System.
