The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that approximately 780,000 strokes occur each year. Of this, 600,000 are new strokes and approximately 180,000 are recurrent strokes. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States.
At St. Mary’s Medical Center, we are equipped and qualified to treat all stroke patients. St. Mary’s is certified by the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center and we are committed to improving the AHA’s statistics by taking care of the stroke patient in an efficient, timely and comprehensive manner using interventions based on scientific evidence. We also promote the guidelines set forth by the American Stroke Association's campaign, "Time Lost is Brain Lost” Stroke that raises awareness of how crucial time is when it comes to seeking medical treatment after a stroke.
We understand the importance of treating the stroke patient quickly. When a patient arrives at our Emergency Room or an inpatient exhibits signs or symptoms of a stroke, our physicians or critical care nurses activate, “Code Stroke”. The hospital operator announces “Code Stroke” and sends an electronic page to radiology, the laboratory, the neurologist on call, and the Stroke Team. Treatment for the stroke patient starts immediately. St. Mary’s also has a comprehensive Stroke Rehabilitation Program, with specialized physicians, nurses and physical, occupational and speech therapists – all dedicated to work with and help our stroke patients in their recovery.
REMEMBER: Stroke is a Medical Emergency and the first three hours are critical.
If you or a family member exhibit any one of the following signs or symptoms, call 911 immediately and ask to be taken to the nearest Stroke Center.
Signs of stroke include:
1. Sudden difficulty talking or understanding words
2. Sudden loss of feeling or strange sensations on one side of your body
3. Sudden weakness on one side of the face, arm or leg
4. Sudden severe unexplainable headache
5. Sudden decreased or blurred vision
6. Sudden unexplained dizziness or loss of balance
Stroke Warning Handout (PDF)
English version
Spanish version
Russian version
Chinese version
If you want more information about St. Mary’s Stroke Center, please call Carmen Frye RN, Stroke Coordinator at 415-750-5974.
