On October 1, South Fulton Medical Center launched a new stroke and tele-neurology program that includes advanced technologies, stroke-trained nurses in the Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit (CCU), and strict guidelines developed by the American Stroke Association.
“Stroke is the third leading cause of death and a leading cause of severe, long-term disability,” says Dana Meyer, project manager for the stroke program and nurse director for CCU. “The stroke program at South Fulton Medical Center is designed to quickly assess and treat patients who suffer from a stroke. When it comes to treating and stopping stroke effects, every second counts.”
“The community around South Fulton Medical Center has a high prevalence of high blood pressure and coronary disease, factors that lead to stroke,” says Karim Godamunne, M.D., board-certified in internal medicine and medical director of the stroke and hospitalist programs. “It is very important to have a hospital nearby that can effectively treat stroke events quickly. We are serving a community need that has not been met in the past. I can not stress enough how every second counts when having a stroke.”
South Fulton Medical Center started a multi-disciplinary task force last summer to prepare for the stroke program. Those on the task force included local EMS, SFMC Administration, Staff Development, and Medical Staff; and clinical leaders from the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit/CCU, Laboratory, Rehabilitation, Pharmacy and Radiology.
“We wanted to make sure we created a program that would benefit our community and be comprehensive to treat the most severe patients,” says Meyer.
About South Fulton Medical Center
For more than 45 years, South Futon Medical Center has provided comprehensive, quality healthcare services for the families of South Fulton County and surrounding areas. Featured services include Labor and Delivery, newly renovated Emergency Department, Surgical Services and Outpatient Services including diagnostic imaging, cardiac catheterization laboratory, radiation oncology, sleep lab and physical, speech and occupational therapies. South Fulton Medical Center was constructed in 1963 as a state-of-the-art facility showcasing the latest in medical innovation to support the rapidly growing Southern Crescent area of metro Atlanta. Since then, South Fulton has continued that tradition of excellence with progressive medical technology, expert physicians, nurses and technicians, and an approach to caring that is as comforting as it is exceptional. For a physician or service referral, please call (404) 466-WELL.
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