Gloucestershire Stroke Unit Homepage - This link is for patient and relative’s information and provides detailed information about strokes

Ward Information

The Stroke Unit is a 29 bed unit dedicated to the acute care and continuing rehabilitation for all adults regardless of age who have had a suspected stroke. The unit consists of 2 six bedded Acute Stroke Bays with one bed identified to take emergency thrombolysis patients and 17 stroke rehabilitation beds.

The ward has adapted to incorporate single sex areas with male and female bays which include shower and toilet facilities.

The Stroke Unit offers a multidisciplinary team approach to the care and management of all stroke patients. Within a safe therapeutic environment, we aim to promote recovery and reduce the impact of disability. The stroke team encourages a friendly atmosphere where all staff are approachable and accessible. Specific team members will only input into your care if it is appropriate.

What to Expect When You are Admitted to Our Ward

On admission to the Stroke Unit, you will be cared for in one of the Acute Stroke Bays for initial assessment and then be transferred into a rehabilitation bay when appropriate.

If you live in the Gloucester city area, you may stay on the Stroke Unit for continuing rehabilitation. If you live outside the city, you may be transferred to the relevant community hospital once all investigations have been done and your condition is stable. Rehabilitation will continue at the community hospital. Such transfers can be at short notice.

Family Meetings

A member of the stroke team may suggest a family meeting. This is when relevant members of the stroke team meet with you and your family to update you on your progress and to answer any questions you may have.

Goal Planning Meetings

A member of the stroke team will book a goal planning meeting normally within the first 2 weeks of your stay. This is when specific members of the stroke team meet with you and your family to discuss your goals. The meeting is designed to help us make your rehabilitation programme individually tailored to you.

The Stroke Specialist Nurse introduces herself to you soon after you have been admitted to the Stroke Ward. With your permission a letter will be passed onto your family/carer inviting them to make an appointment to meet with her for her to answer any questions or queries they may have. There is also the opportunity to arrange a joint meeting with the Social Work Support Worker based on the ward.

Please be aware that the Trust is now a smoke free NHS. Smoking is not permitted in any building or within the grounds of any of our sites. Information and support is available to any patients who wish to stop smoking. Nicotine Replacement Therapy is available to help reduce your cravings during your stay.

How to Contact the Ward

You and your family will be informed of the best time to telephone for news.

Telephone numbers: - 08454 22 5344

Or Telephone Switchboard on 08454 22 2222 and ask for the Ward.

Information given by staff over the telephone may be limited, but we are happy to give an overview of the patient’s condition. To avoid many callers of a large family, it is appreciated if a spokesperson is appointed to relay progress to those concerned.