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Why is Education Important?
Patients often have short admissions and receive a large amount of information while in the hospital. For stroke patients, it is important that the patient and family receive essential information about strokes, necessary lifestyle changes, medications, therapy options, etc. Each patient and family is educated on rehabilitation and coping techniques that they can use in the hospital and at home.
The following topics are covered:
- Rehabilitation to improve speech, movement and daily activities
- Coping strategies for dealing with the physical and emotional effects of stroke
- Support and resources for patients and caregivers.
- Tips for living healthier, safe medication use, warning signs of another stroke, and the importance of calling 911 IMMEDIATELY for emergency medical help.
- A worksheet to write the names of caregivers so the patient can identify staff taking care of them. This sheet also includes a list of general risk factors to enable the patient and nursing staff to identify risk factors specific to the patient.
- "Stroke and TIA"- Explains the difference between a Stroke and TIA.
- Information about the Shenandoah Valley Stroke Club, a group sponsored by Augusta Health's Recreation Therapy Department. This is a support group for stroke survivors, their family and friends. Dates of the meetings are listed.
- "Food Guide for Heart Healthy Diet"
- Contact information for a nursing case manager for any questions after discharge.
- Brochure discussing Augusta Health's Rehabilitation Unit.
Take a Minute to Measure Your Risk!
Risk Factors you can control:
- High Blood Pressure
- Tobacco / Smoking
- High Blood Cholesterol
- Physical Inactivity
Risk Factors you can't control:
- Increasing Age
- Sex (gender)
- Family Medical History
- Previous Heart Attack or Stroke
Lifestyle Changes for Prevention
- If you smoke » Stop
- Exercise regularly with your doctor's permission
- If your blood pressure is high » See your doctor and control it
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you drink excessive alcohol » Stop
- Improve your eating habits » Reduce sodium and fat intake
- Actively manage your diabetes
- Know your family history
- Take your medications as prescribed