Nash UNC Health Care Stroke Care Recertified
Nash UNC Health Care recently received recertification of The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval and the American Heart Association-American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers.
The Gold Seal of Approval and the Heart-Check mark represent symbols of quality from their respective organizations.
“Our hospital is pleased to receive advanced certification from The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association-American Stroke Association,” said Lee Isley, president and CEO of Nash UNC Health Care. “This provides us with the opportunity to highlight the exceptional stroke care we are providing for our community.”
Nash UNC Health Care underwent a rigorous on-site review in November 2018 and received its recertification letter on Jan. 4. During the on-site visit, Joint Commission experts evaluated Nash UNC’s compliance with stroke-related standards and requirements, including program management, the delivery of clinical care and performance improvement.
The certification is awarded for a two-year period.
“Nash UNC has thoroughly demonstrated the greatest level of commitment to the care of stroke patients through its Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers,” said Patrick Phelan, executive director of hospital business development for The Joint Commission. “We commend them for becoming a leader in stroke care, potentially providing a higher standard of service for stroke patients in the community.”
Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association-American Stroke Association, added, “By adhering to this very specific set of treatment guidelines, Nash UNC has clearly made it a priority to deliver high-quality care to all patients affected by stroke.”
Mary K. Baker, stroke program coordinator at Nash UNC, explained the importance of having a top-notch stroke program.
“With acute ischemic strokes — which are the most common types of strokes, those caused by the blockage of an artery — quick treatment is absolutely essential,” she said. “That’s why it’s so important to know the signs and symptoms of stroke.”
Baker said the easiest way to remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke is the acronym BE FAST, which stands for Balance: sudden change in balance or coordination; Eyes: sudden change in vision, loss of vision in one or both eyes; Face: facial droop; Arms: cannot hold arms up or arm weakness; Speech: slurred or garbled speech or inability to speak; and Time: time to call 911.
For more information on stroke treatment at Nash UNC Health Care, visit the Stroke Care website at www.nashunchealthcare.org.
