Stroke

If a stroke is caused by a blockage and the type and location can be determined within three hours; patients are often treated with a medication known as tPA (tissue plasminogen activator). In some patients, this medication can dissolve clots and stop or reduce the damage from stroke.

For some complex cases, having a timely neurological consult can help beat the clock. Through telemedicine-based technology, Yakima staff can access neurological experts at Virginia Mason Health System in Seattle. This live, video-conferencing system, Telestroke, ensures patients receive around-the-clock access to specialists without traveling away from home »

The Team Includes:

• Neurologists
• Emergency Medicine Physicians
• Neurosurgeons
• Vascular Surgeons
• Nurses specially trained in stroke care
• Clinical Pharmacists
• Case Managers
• Rehabilitation Specialists

Learn more about Virginia Mason Memorial Stroke Services »

Stroke?  Think F.A.S.T.

If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and do this simple test:

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 sentence. Are their words slurred?­

TIME:

If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important. Call 9-1-1 immediately.