TeleStroke Program at PCGH Continuing to Expedite Patient Treatment
Theresa Moniotte, RN, explains TeleStroke to a patient.
In May 2011, Pointe Coupee General Hospital implemented the stroke telemedicine program that provides access to a stroke neurologist at all times of the day and night. This program was established with grant funds from the Department of Health and Hospitals’ Disease and Stroke Prevention Program (DHH/HDSP) in a partnership with Ochsner Medical Center-New Orleans and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. The grant has allowed the Pointe Coupee General Hospital Emergency Department physician and staff 24-hour access to a stroke neurologist at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
The access to the DHH/Ochsner Telestroke Network program has been made possible using the Remote Evaluation of Acute isCHemic stroke or REACH Call. The PCGH Emergency Department is equipped with the latest technology to provide remote live access at the bedside. This technology provides streamlined communication and synced in real-time making it possible for the Ochsner stroke neurologist to assess the stroke patient’s condition and determine which treatment options are best for the stroke patient. This is like having the Ochsner stroke neurologist at the patient’s bedside. All written entries and orders by the physicians at both hospitals are visible to both facilities immediately.
Elaine Hurme, PhD, RN and Debbie Bourgoyne, RN, ED Manager, demonstrate the new Telestroke technology located in the Emergency Department.
The program has been a huge success with over 60 patients having received timely neurological management and treatment since the program’s inception. PCGH is committed to providing the most advanced and up to date care possible for the residents of this and surrounding communities. This specialized innovative program has been beneficial in managing the stroke patient when minutes and seconds count.
