PNH: When Treating Strokes, Every Minute Counts
From Piedmont Newnan Hospital Press Release
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States.
As a result, Piedmont Newnan Hospital is on a mission to increase awareness of stroke signs, symptoms and risk factors. While Piedmont Newnan can provide excellent care for patients suffering from stroke, the biggest factor in creating positive outcomes is for a person to act quickly at the first signs of symptoms.
“Time means everything when it comes to a patient’s potential recovery from a stroke,” said Robin Baker,
RN, BSN, SCRN, CEN, Stroke Program Manager at Piedmont Newnan. “If you are experiencing any symptoms of a stroke or other cardiac event, call 9-1-1 immediately. Your outcomes are far worse from a heart attack or stroke if you delay care or do not come to the hospital.”
A stroke is when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted due to a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel. When this happens, the brain does not receive oxygen that is required to prevent brain cells from dying.
The key of optimal recovery of a stroke and decreasing disability is to B.E.F.A.S.T.:
- Balance- sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- Eyes- sudden vision loss or double vision
- Face- look for an uneven smile
- Arm- check if one arm or leg is weak
- Speech- listen for slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Time- call 9-1-1 right away
According to the Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center, Georgia is part of a group of 11 states, call the Stroke Belt, where the risk of having a stroke is 34 percent higher than in other areas of the country. Researchers attribute this to higher rates of obesity, smoking and cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
“The faster a stroke is recognized and treatment is provided to restore blood flow to the brain the greater chance disability will be reduced. Every minute nearly 2 million brain cells can die. Recognizing the symptoms and calling 9-1-1 immediately are the first steps to improving outcomes, “said Baker.
To learn more about strokes, visit piedmont.org/neurosciences.
