Stroke Care
Crestwood Medical Center has earned 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.
When a patient comes to the hospital with stroke symptoms, it’s crucial to make a proper diagnosis quickly in order to begin treatment to minimize the effects of a stroke. The stroke care team at Crestwood Medical Center delivers potentially life-saving care for ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.
Following a stroke, rehabilitation care is there to help individuals regain their independence. The multidisciplinary rehabilitation team at Crestwood Medical Center provides caring, personalized assistance to help patients meet their goals.
According to the National Stroke Association, a stroke is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and the leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability. This year, a stroke will occur every 40 seconds and will take a life every four hours. Two million brain cells die every minute during stroke, increasing the risk of permanent brain damage, disability or death.
Recognizing symptoms and acting F.A.S.T. can save a life and decrease the chances of permanent disabilities.
Know the symptoms:
- Confusion or difficulty speaking/understanding
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sudden loss of vision
- Sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis of the face or on one side of the body
- Sudden severe headache
- Unexplained dizziness and/or loss of balance
Act F.A.S.T.
- Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
As a Primary Stroke Center designated by the Alabama Department of Public Health’s Office of Emergency Medical Services, Crestwood Medical Center has met rigorous standards. This designation means that Crestwood Medical Center has the advanced technology, infrastructure, staff and training to receive and treat patients (ages 18 and over) appropriately and timely. Crestwood Medical Center has also been recognized by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association with the Get With The Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.