Stroke

A stroke is a serious, potentially life-threatening medical condition that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. The sooner a person is seen, and treatment is received the less damage is caused to the brain.

Our dedicated department has a team of specialist staff who support all patients who have had a suspected stroke or TIA (transient ischaemic attack or "mini stroke").

The team comprises of a dedicated and specialised team of consultants, stroke coordinators, staff nurses, health care assistants, research nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, therapy assistants, speech and language therapists and dietitians. We work closely together with the patient and their relatives throughout their admission to provide high quality care.

About Our Services

We have Stroke inpatient beds at Peterborough City Hospital (PCH) and Hinchingbrooke Hospital (HH). The Acute Stroke Centre in PCH is a 34-bed combined unit with 12 Hyperacute Stroke Unit (HASU) and 22 combined Acute Stroke Unit (ASU) beds and rehabilitation beds. There are additional 7 rehabilitation beds available in the adjacent ward. The Rehabilitation Stroke Unit at Hinchingbrooke Hospital is 12-bed rehabilitation unit with aim to expand further in near future.

We offer 24/7 thrombolysis (out of hours cover by regional telemedicine service).

Patients suitable for mechanical thrombectomy are referred to either Royal London Hospital or CUH Hospital.

We offer 7-day transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or "mini stroke" service, in both hospitals.

Stroke Symptoms - Act FAST

Because its important to get somebody who has suffered a stroke seen and treated as soon as possible, it is essential to recognise the symptoms of a stroke as soon as possible.

The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered with the word F.A.S.T.

  • Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped.
  • Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
  • Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake.
  • Time – it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms

For more information, please visit NHS England » Act FAST