Caldwell — West Valley Medical Center is now a designated Level III Stroke Center in the state of Idaho. This means the center is an advanced stroke capable hospital, providing the best care related to recognizing strokes, imaging and treatment including administration of medication for certain stroke patients and the ability to transfer patients to an interventional facility within an hour of arrival.
Last fall West Valley added the position of Stroke Coordinator to the Quality/Patient Safety department. The position works in partnership with the Emergency Department, hospital leadership, as well as other organizations to implement best practices, and educates the community about the importance of early stroke detection. Stroke Coordinator Devan Trosky says stroke care is a team effort, which is why it is critical to keep colleagues up to date on best practices.
"Our team at West Valley is dedicated to providing the best care imaginable to all of our patients. I have a passion for stroke education and I am committed to creating a sense of urgency within the community because education and knowledge of stroke, really can decrease the long term deficits that a patient may experience," said Trosky.
"Our surveyors were impressed with the hardwired process we have in place. This was a team effort and we are proud to continue striving to provide the best care for our patients every day," said Tracee Hendershott, West Valley Chief Nursing Officer.
Stroke symptoms include:
- Sudden numbness or weakness of face, leg or arm
- Abrupt loss of vision
- Abrupt loss of coordination/strength
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden severe headache
- Loss of balance with nausea/vomiting
It is important to seek medical attention immediately, call 9-1-1 if you or someone you know experiences the above symptoms.