IN Fox Chapel Area Winter 2013 | Page 2

FAST Action Can Save Your Brain

Every year, nearly 800,000 Americans — young and old — suffer
a stroke. When a stroke occurs, fast action is critical to protect
the brain.

an individualized treatment plan is developed. “The window of
opportunity for the most successful stroke treatment is just three
hours after onset,” says Dr. Nicholas.

“People often ignore stroke symptoms, thinking they can sleep it
off,” says Bobbi-Jo Skurko, BSN, stroke coordinator at UPMC
St. Margaret. “The faster you get to a hospital that offers highly
specialized stroke care, the better your chances for survival and a
full recovery.”

What you can do

The UPMC St. Margaret Stroke Program has an acute care stroke
team available 24 hours, seven days a week. The team includes
physicians, nurses, and other staff who are experienced
in diagnosing and treating strokes.

Think FAST

The center has received certification from The Joint Commission
for its commitment to providing the highest level of care for its
stroke patients.

“The window of opportunity for the most
successful stroke treatment is just three
hours after onset.” James Nicholas, MD
A true medical emergency
“Strokes can happen to anyone, at any time,” says James Nicholas,
MD, medical director, Emergency Department (ED) at UPMC
St. Margaret. When a stroke does occur, it’s urgent to seek
emergency care immediately because every minute after the start
of a stroke means greater risk of permanent damage or death.
At UPMC St. Margaret, a protocol is followed as soon as a stroke
patient arrives in the ED. Following a physical exam and diagnostic
tests to learn the cause and the extent of the stroke,

“It’s far better to treat a stroke immediately than to deal with the
consequences,” adds Dr. Nicholas. “That’s why it is so important
for everyone to be aware of stroke symptoms and know that they
can get critical expert care here in their community.”
Use this simple acronym to help determine whether you’re
witnessing a stroke:

Face: Can the person smile, or does one side of the face droop?
Arms: Can the person raise both arms, or does one drift down?
Speech: Can the person speak clearly or repeat a simple phrase?
Time: Call 911 immediately if someone exhibits any of these signs!
Act FAST
Every minute of delay in treating a stroke is said to cost a patient
1.9 million brain cells. Strokes require immediate medical attention,
so knowing the warning signs is crucial. Stroke symptoms can
include sudden onset of:
• Paralysis or weakness in the face or limbs, especially on one side
of the body
• Problems with balance or walking
• Vision problems
• Slurred speech
• Sudden onset of confusion
• Problems speaking or understanding others
• Severe headache
To learn more about the UPMC St. Margaret Stroke Program, visit
UPMCStMargaret.com/Stroke, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC