role of the stroke rehabilitation unit
Last reviewed 01/2018
The stroke rehabilitation unit is a medical ward where emphasis is placed on the contribution of the:
- physiotherapist
- occupational therapist
- speech and language therapist
- psychologist
- social worker
The patient is gradually encouraged to maximise his or her capabilities and taught to use strategies to get around specific functional problems. Mechanical aids and modification to the home are planned according to need.
A tailored community care package is planned prior to discharge. 40% of patients who survive a stroke for 6 months will require help with one or more activities of daily living. Most experience greatly diminished social interaction so day care services are valuable.
The time spent on the stroke rehabilitation unit is often measured in months as progress may be slow.
Stroke patients have a better prognosis if they are rehabilitated on a dedicated stroke rehabilitation unit. The main advantages are:
- reduced mortality
- improved activities of daily living on discharge
- possibly shorter length of stay