Award Winning Stroke Care
Mercy Comprehensive Stroke Center has earned the Gold Seal of Approval for stroke care. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations awarded the certification after conducting an on-site review. According to the Joint Commission, Mercy Comprehensive Stroke Center demonstrated that its stroke care program follows national standards and guidelines that can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients.

At Mercy, There is Hope
Stroke, also known as “brain attack,” is the third leading cause of death in the United States. It’s the leading cause of serious long-term disability. The impact of stroke on the patient, family and society is dramatic.

That’s why Mercy Medical Center-Sioux City has taken a leadership role in helping the victims of stroke and their families. By offering a continuum of care for stroke patients, Mercy Comprehensive Stroke Center provides quality care based upon state-of-the-art standards and world-class models.

Emergency Stroke Care
Rapid Diagnosis and Intervention
Acute Stroke Care and Rehabilitation
Preventing Stroke and Promoting Wellness

For more information on Mercy’s Comprehensive Stroke Center call 712-279-5879 or send an e-mail to motzd@mercyhealth.com.

When Minutes Count…Mercy is Ready
EMS providers (first responders) EMTs and paramedics work at the front line in the battle against stroke. With recognition of the early symptoms of stroke, EMS providers communicate with the Mercy Trauma Center to facilitate rapid diagnosis and treatment. Mercy Air Care allows for rapid transportation of stroke patients. Time is critical to stroke victims. That’s why the medical experts at Mercy – including neurologists, neurosurgeons and other specialists – are available 24-hours a day.

Rapid Diagnosis and Intervention
A comprehensive approach to the evaluation of cerebrovascular disorder is an important component in the continuum of care at Mercy Comprehensive Stroke Center. Using advanced diagnostic techniques, neurologists and neuroradiologists quickly confirm that a patient is suffering a stroke and rapidly identify the region of the brain affected by stroke and the blood vessels involved. Thanks to Mercy’s commitment to state-of-the-art technology, the acute stroke team has immediate access to the best diagnostic resources.

If a patient is a good candidate for t-PA emergency physicians and neurologists at Mercy are able to administer the drug quickly and effectively. When necessary, Mercy’s neurosurgeons can skillfully perform delicate vascular neurosurgery using state-of-the-art facilities and medical equipment, such as the Stryker navigation system. Using advanced imaging techniques, such as angiography and magnetic resonance imaging, neurologists can identify the region of the brain affected by stroke and the blood vessels involved. In carefully selected patients, they may be able to perform delicate manipulations of these blood vessels to treat acute stroke or to reduce the risk of new stroke.

Acute Stroke Care and Rehabilitation
Patients who have suffered a stroke receive specialized care in Mercy’s stroke unit, where dedicated, specially-trained personnel provide expert care utilizing the most sophisticated medical technology and resources. Each patient is treated with respect and dignity in a compassionate, family-friendly environment.

A critical part of care is rehabilitation, which begins as soon as the patient is admitted to the hospital. Specially-trained physical, occupational and speech therapists help patients overcome or compensate for disability. Rehabilitation programs are tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Patients who require extended rehabilitation receive care in Mercy’s inpatient rehabilitation unit.

Care by the Mercy Comprehensive Stroke Center team does not end when the patient leaves the hospital. The Stroke Center continues to follow the patient’s progress in other settings, such as home care or extended care. Emphasis is always placed on achieving the highest possible quality of life for each patient after leaving the hospital.

Preventing Stroke and Promoting Wellness
Mercy Medical Center places great emphasis on promoting wellness and stroke prevention by regularly hosting stroke screenings, evaluations and educational sessions.

For more information on stroke and the warning signs of stroke, click here to visit the National Stroke Association website.