Medical Services

Stroke Care

Stroke. It's the third leading cause of death in the U.S., behind heart disease and cancer. Those who suffer a stroke often face extensive rehabilitation to regain physical, behavioral or communication skills.

Signs & Symptoms

It's critical to understand and recognize the symptoms of a stroke quickly. Stroke occurs when a blood vessel going to the brain either bursts or is blocked. Without blood or oxygen, that section of the brain begins to die. Immediate treatment can reduce the amount of damage to the brain, and increase chances of a full recovery.

Watch for these symptoms and seek emergency medical care:

  • Sudden numbness, paralysis, or weakness in face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
  • Unexpected difficulty walking or keeping balance
  • Slurred speech or drooling
  • New vision changes
  • Problems speaking or understanding others
  • Feeling confused
  • Sudden, severe headache
SJRMC Stroke Unit

Code Stroke

In a continued effort to improve stroke care in our community, the Mishawaka Campus employs Code Stroke, an activation system for potential stroke patients who come into the Emergency Room.

  • Rapid mobilization of the multi-disciplinary Stroke Team, which includes the ER physician, neurologist, stroke nurses, lab, CT, X-Ray & EKG
  • Team follows protocols to appropriately assess and treat patient as quickly as possible

Stroke Unit

The Mishawaka Campus includes a Stroke Unit certified by The Joint Commission. Achievement of certification signifies compliance with national standards and performance measurement expectations.

  • Specially-trained Stroke Nurses
  • Entire team dedicated to improving outcomes and quality of life
  • Annual re-certification is granted after on-site review by The Joint Commission

Stroke Support Group

Recovering from a stroke and regaining independence is a life-changing process.

  • Support group sponsored by the Saint Joseph Rehabilitation Institute strives to provide education and encouragement
  • Stroke survivors, families and caregivers welcome to share personal stories and peer support
  • Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of each month at 7:30 pm, at the Saint Joseph Rehabilitation Institute, 60205 Bodnar Boulevard in Mishawaka. For more information call 574-335-8800.