University Health System receives stroke certification

<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">(SAN ANTONIO - June 10, 2010) When a life is in jeopardy because of a car crash or other serious injury, most people know the trauma care experts are at University Hospital, the lead Level I Trauma Center for Bexar County and all of South Texas. Now, following an extensive review process, University Hospital is also certified to provide a high level of expertise for stroke patients. <br /> <br /> This certification means that the needed processes are in place at University Hospital to assure stroke patients are assessed and treated rapidly, around the clock, 365 days a year. Similar to many types of traumatic injury, time is often a critical factor in determining how a stroke patient will recover. The Stroke Team at University Hospital, a partnership with The University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, is immediately notified when a suspected stroke patient is en-route to the Emergency Center. <br /> <br /> But, that level of rapid response is just one of many stroke certification requirements. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s much more than the presence of people on call,&rdquo; explains Nancy Ray, RN, University Health System chief nursing officer and associate administrator for University Hospital. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s adhering to a very strict set of standards and protocols.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> Most of these protocols, including treatment with TPA, a strong clot-busting medication, require close monitoring by neurologists so Ray says involvement of the UT Health Science Center&rsquo;s Department of Neurology was critical to achieving stroke certification. She credits Neurology Chair Dr. Robin Brey for making stroke care a priority and for serving as the physician champion for this important initiative. &ldquo;Her leadership made all the difference.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> Contacts: Leni Kirkman, Julie Wiley <br /> (210) 358-2335 or Pager (210) 203-3300</span><br />

more »