William Randolph Hearst Foundation Stroke Rehabilitation Unit

Stroke Rehabilitation Unit The philosophy of patient centered rehabilitation allows the stroke team to create specific interdisciplinary treatment plans that address all aspects of stroke rehabilitation, enabling each patient to return to a maximum level of function.

The Stroke Rehabilitation Team
All members of the Rusk Stroke rehabilitation team have specialized training to treat and provide health care to stroke patients. Under the leadership of a physiatrist (a physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation), patients and family members work with an extensive multidisciplinary team.

Nursing: With a long history of providing specialized care to stroke patients, the Nursing Staff has excellent functional assessment skills and takes a comprehensive approach to the care of the stroke patient and their families. With a significant number of Registered Nurses possessing certification in Rehabilitation Nursing (CRRN) they demonstrate expertise in the management of incontinence, pressure ulcer prevention, medication administration as well as carry out treatments and procedures associated with the management of pain.

Social Work: As professional counselors with a Master's degree in Social Work, social workers assess concerns related to adjustment to illness and disability, as well as provide emotional support to patient and family. The social workers help to coordinate discharge planning and assist patients with any plans regarding post-hospital care, including home care, equipment, financial aid, transportation from the hospital, and continuing care at other healthcare facilities. Social workers meet with patients and families individually, and facilitate psycho-educational groups.