Stroke Program

Stroke occurs when there is a sudden disruption of blood flow to the brain due to a blood vessel blockage or by a ruptured artery. If blood flow is interrupted for more than a few minutes, brain cells die and set off a chain reaction injuring more cells in surrounding areas of the brain. As cells die, basic skills such as speech, self care, mobility, and memory can be impaired or lost.

An Interdisciplinary Team Approach

Our interdisciplinary rehabilitation team works closely with recovering stroke patients throughout an intensive course of integrated therapy and medical management. The objective is to restore movement, improve speech, teach self care and home care skills and improve cognitive and memory functions. Stroke patients and their families have access to all of the experienced and specially trained professionals and advanced therapeutic procedures available to maximize the individual's recovery. In addition to physicians and nurses, the rehabilitation team may include occupational and physical therapists, psychologists, speech-language pathologists and social workers. Educational support groups add an important element of assistance and encouragement for patients and their families during their stay and even after the patient's return, home. Often, patients continue their therapy regimen on an outpatient basis after discharge.

Stroke Team Highlights

• Stroke Team Vision: At Adventist Rehabilitation Hospital of Maryland, stroke patients and their families will be guided through a patient-focused, comprehensive, and outcome-oriented stroke program by a caring, competent team of healthcare professionals.
• Doctors at both sites are working with Holy Cross Hospital, Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, and Washington Adventist Hospital to coordinate stroke care.
• Separate a stroke unit in the hospital, which includes two stroke designated teams that are specially trained for stroke patients and have one focus—the stroke patient.
• Team conducts walking rounds, rather than a team conference, to discuss with the patient what they've accomplished and their next steps.
• Adventist Rehab is participating in a research project with the NIH Stroke Program.
• A follow-up outpatient program has been implemented to continue to monitor the patient's progress.
• There are two stroke support groups, one in Rockville and one in the Silver Spring, to help stroke patients and their caregivers.
• Lower patient/staff ratio.

Critical Elements of the Program

1. Individualized Handbook geared to the patient's type of stroke
2. Community Outings
3. Therapeutic Pass
4. Bowel and Bladder Training
5. ADL Apartment Stay
6. Six Session Education Series on weekends for family, friends, and patient
7. Car Transfer Training
8. Home Modifications

Admissions

Please visit our admissions process page for more information on beginning your rehabilitation at Adventist Rehab!