Aultman Hospital is certified as a Primary Stroke Center (PSC) through The Joint Commission. The Joint Commission is recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality. Aultman Hospital's Primary Stroke Center certification reflects our organization’s commitment to meeting certain performance standards.

Why BE FAST?

A stroke can happen to anyone. On average, in the United States nearly 800,000 people suffer a stroke annually. Knowing how to BE FAST in recognizing and seeking treatment for yourself or someone you suspect is having a stroke is critical in preventing permanent damage or death.

Know the Signs 

• B- Sudden difficulty with balance
• E- Sudden issues with vision in one or both eyes
• F- Face or smile droops on one side
• A- Sudden weakness in arm or leg
• S- Sudden difficulty with speech or slurring of words
• T- A quick time response is important, call 911 immediately

Types of Strokes

There are different types of strokes. Ischemic strokes are strokes that occur when there is a blockage in the blood vessels in the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when there is a break or rupture in the blood vessels causing bleeding in or on the brain. Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA) occur when stroke symptoms occur but then completely resolve. These events of TIA strokes can be a warning sign, so please seek medical attention for guidance on treatment and prevention of the same or worsening symptoms occurring.

Our Team

If you are admitted for a possible stroke, collaboration between departments will be decided based on your specific needs determined by your doctor. The Stroke Team of neurologists, nurse practitioners and stroke coordinators will work with the medical team to bring in other departments needed to promote effective care. Some of these departments include nursing staff, pharmacy department, radiology department, laboratory services, dietary services, social worker, diabetic educator and therapy services including physical, occupational, speech therapy and others based on each person’s specific needs.

Work with Your Doctor to Lower Your Risk of Having a Stroke

Because strokes affect our vessels:

• Keep blood pressure under control
• Treat your diabetes if diagnosed
• Reduce your cholesterol level
• Exercise daily  
• Quit smoking
• Manage your sleep apnea

Treatment

Some patients experiencing an ischemic stroke may be eligible for a “clot-busting” medication after the risks and benefits of treatment have been evaluated. It is important to seek medical attention immediately to evaluate if a hemorrhagic, bleeding in the brain, or ischemic, blockage of a vessel in the brain, is occurring so the correct treatment can occur.

Rehabilitation After Stroke

During your recovery, you may want to talk with others with a similar experience. Patients affected by stroke, as well as their loved ones, are welcome to attend the Together Helping Increase Neurological Knowledge (THINK) Support Group. The group meets the third Thursday of the month from 2-3 p.m. at Aultman Woodlawn. Call 330-479-4800 to learn more.

For a list of community resources, click here.

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