Conyers, Ga. (December 3, 2024) – Piedmont Rockdale Hospital recently received Primary Stroke Center certification from Det Norske Veritas Healthcare, Inc. (DNV). Primary Stroke Center certification demonstrates how Piedmont Rockdale follows the protocols established by DNV, Guidelines of the Brain Attack Coalition and recommendations of the American Stroke Association to care for stroke patients. Such guidelines include methods to fast-track patients suspected of stroke so physicians can begin brain-saving treatments immediately.
By earning the Primary Stroke Center certification, Piedmont Rockdale demonstrates its emphasis on deploying a disciplined management system, with clinical best practices and a commitment to excellence.
“Receiving Primary Stroke Center certification is an important step for the health of our community,” said Monica Hum, chief executive officer at Piedmont Rockdale Hospital. “We have been providing emergent treatment for stroke for many years but now our Emergency Medical Services can bring stroke patients directly to us instead of transporting them outside of Rockdale County.”
Jessica Giangrande, MSN, RNC, CHPN, manager of the stroke program at Piedmont Rockdale has worked with stroke patients for several years and helped lead the initiative to pursue certification. “Getting emergent stroke treatment within the first four hours of the sudden onset of a stroke is critical,” said Giangrande. “The best thing about having a Primary Stroke Center in our community is that people can receive treatment close to home.”
Georgia, which is located in the Stroke Belt (the southeastern portion of the United States known for having an unusually high incidence of stroke and other forms of cardiovascular disease), has a death rate that is 40 percent higher than the national average, according to Georgia Department of Community Health, Division of Public Health.
Stroke, also referred to as a “brain attack,” occurs when a blood vessel breaks or a blood clot blocks an artery, interrupting blood supply to the brain. Strokes can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of age, race or gender. The key to optimal recovery is to act B.E.F.A.S.T.:
• Balance – watch for dizziness or loss of balance.
• Eyes – check for vision loss, blurred or double vision.
• Face – look for an uneven smile.
• Arm – check if one arm is weak.
• Speech – listen for slurred speech.
• Time – call 911 right away.
If you see or have any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately. Calling 9-1-1 is the fastest way to obtain life-saving care.