Treatment room in ambulatory stroke care unit
People with a suspected minor stroke symptoms are now benefiting from fast-track care at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
Suitable patients attending the A&E department will be taken to the new ambulatory care unit on the stroke ward.
Typically, symptoms may include facial weakness, slurred speech, or very minor arm or leg weakness
The patient will have blood tests and scans, and then be seen by a stroke consultant.
Stroke nurse consultant Hollie Dhar said: “Working this way often means we can treat the patient on the same day and avoid a stay in hospital.”
The new unit is part of the three-year programme of improvements to stroke care funded by Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board.
Stroke symptoms are caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to part of the brain.
Stroke is a time sensitive condition. Recognising the signs and getting the person to hospital within three to four hours greatly increases the chance of recovery as well as reducing likelihood of permanent disability and the need for extensive rehabilitation.
Hollie added: “If you suspect stroke, we want to see you as soon as possible. Act FAST and get into hospital immediately because we’re here for you.”
Acting FAST means:
- Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms – can they raise both their arms and keep them there?
- Speech – is their speech slurred?
- Time – time to call 999