What is an Advanced Primary Stroke Center?
December 16, 2024
Health News
Did you know that data from Northern Nevada Public Health indicates that stroke was one of the top five causes of death among Washoe County residents in 2020? Kaytlyn Korn, MSN, RN, Stroke Coordinator, Northern Nevada Health System, says it is comforting to know that Northern Nevada Medical Center was recently recertified by The Joint Commission as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. Here, she explains what the certification means and how it benefits the community.
What does it mean for Northern Nevada Medical Center to be an Advanced Primary Stroke Center?
Northern Nevada Medical Center staff collaborated with The Joint Commission, a national organization that assesses healthcare organizations and their ability to provide care consistent with leading practices, to adhere to a high standard of care for stroke patients.
An Advanced Primary Stroke Center is recognized as a facility that has proven to follow consistent guidelines of stroke care used nationally, tailor treatment to individual needs of the patient, distribute information efficiently among care teams, and comply with clinical practice guidelines provided by the American Heart and Stroke Associations.
What did Northern Nevada Medical Center do to be recertified?
To maintain this certification, staff provided data through their previous certification period to demonstrate adherence to recognized best practices, including those previously mentioned. The demonstration and approval of continued excellence in the care of stroke patients allowed for Northern Nevada Medical Center to receive recertification for an additional two-year period.
Why is it important for Northern Nevada Medical Center to maintain their certification?
Certification as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center is important for the safety and well-being of the community. Not only does it demonstrate to the public that Northern Nevada Medical Center provides high quality, effective stroke care, it also shows that the staff are utilizing best practices to meet the unique needs of stroke patients. When a patient has a stroke, time is precious, and by adhering to national standards, patients receive top-level care resulting in better outcomes.