This week the Countess of Chester Hospital officially opened its new Integrated Stroke Unit to treat and care for acute stroke patients as well supporting their rehabilitation and discharge from hospital in a way that caters for their individual needs and wishes.
The Stroke Association were present at the opening ceremony along with members of the Trust's Executive Team, representatives from West Cheshire CCG as well as members of staff from the stroke unit itself.
The new 28 bedded stroke unit incorporates the rehabilitation service previously located at Ellesmere Port Hospital to allow the entire Stroke Service to function in one location at the Countess.
Director of Nursing & Quality, Alison Kelly said: "This new unit has been established following an engagement and consultation process with patients, staff, members of the public and representatives from stroke related service providers. The resulting unit has been designed in response to patient needs and wishes which clearly stated that there is a desire for stroke patients to make a speedy transition from hospital and into their own homes where their rehabilitation can continue. We feel this fantastic new unit is well placed to satisfy these wishes."
The unit itself will be led by Stroke Physicians and supported by a team of specialist nursing and therapy staff. The Stroke Early Supported Discharge Team work alongside ward staff and continue the patients' recovery, once discharged.
Other developments on the unit to support this process include modifications and improvements to the ward environment and a new day room for patients. In addition, the unit will now work more closely with the Stroke Association to incorporate all stroke related aspects of care into the patient journey.
Alison added: "The new unit will not only improve the quality of service for stroke patients but it also supports our nursing teams and other staff to help provide a more focussed service."
