When stroke strikes, seconds count

To provide emergent care to in-house patients experiencing stroke symptoms, Lancaster General Hospital, in conjunction with the Rapid Response Team, will roll out an in-house stroke alert process.
 

Any in-patient experiencing acute onset of stroke symptoms can be a stroke alert.
 

Symptoms include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing or blurred vision in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance or coordination

After activation, the RRT provider will communicate with the NAL/LGHP neurologist on stroke call for the hospital.

Upon confirmation by a stroke neurologist of in-house stroke alert, activate the following orders:

• 12-Lead ECG
• Chest X-Ray-AP portable
• CT Head-stroke alert
• CTA as confirmed by neurologist

Stat Labs (If not drawn within last 24 hours):

• Cardiac profile: Troponin only
• CBC, CMP, Prothrombin time with INR
• iSTAT creatinine
• INR fingerstick if on Coumadin

If you have any questions about this process, please contact Dr. Murray Flaster, Stroke Medical Director, 717-544-5478, or Tracey Mousley, RN, Stroke Program Coordinator, 717-544-5686.