Emphasizing early mobilization key to recovery for stroke patients

LA CROSSE, Wis. ― Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse is redefining stroke care with a focus on early mobilization for patients, aiming to optimize recovery and minimize complications.

Stroke remains a significant public health concern, with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) statistics revealing that every 40 seconds, someone in the United States experiences a stroke. Stroke is a leading cause of death for Americans, but the risk of having a stroke varies with race and ethnicity.

"Strokes occur suddenly and without warning, making immediate medical attention crucial. Recognizing the signs and symptoms and seeking prompt treatment can significantly impact patient outcomes," says Bridget Servais, R.N., stroke coordinator for Mayo Clinic Health System.

To address the multifaceted challenge of stroke, Mayo Clinic Health System stresses early mobilization as a cornerstone of stroke recovery.

"When patients are admitted to the hospital, our goal is to get them up and moving as quickly as possible," Servais explains. "Early ambulation and movement have been shown to correlate with better outcomes, reducing the risk of complications such as pneumonia and blood clots."

In addition to early mobilization, Mayo Clinic Health System offers advanced interventions for stroke patients. Patients may be candidates for an IV thrombolytic medication administered in the emergency department, and could potentially transfer to Mayo Clinic Rochester for emergent endovascular therapy.

"The faster you can get to the emergency department, the better," stresses Servais. "By administering the IV thrombolytic treatment within zero to four and a half hours from the patient's last known well, this clot-busting medication can help break up the clot in patients with ischemic stroke. Endovascular therapy is when a provider surgically removes the clot if it's in a large vessel area of the brain. This can be done up to 24 hours from the patient's last known moment of feeling well."

In Wisconsin, stroke continues to pose a significant public health challenge. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health, stroke was responsible for over 2,500 deaths in 2017, making it the fifth leading cause of death in the state. With over 11,000 hospitalizations attributed to stroke, Servais recognizes the importance of innovative strategies to address this pressing health issue.

"Time is critical in stroke care," states Servais. "The success of most stroke treatments depends on how soon a person is seen by a healthcare provider after stroke symptom onset. The faster patients can receive treatment, the better their chances of minimizing damage to the brain and reducing disability."

Servais says Mayo Clinic Health System's emphasis on early mobilization reflects a new proactive approach to stroke care, aiming to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.

"Patients appreciate being able to move sooner after a stroke," says Servais. "Not only does it enhance their comfort and well-being, but it also supports their recovery process."

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and diabetes are leading causes of stroke. One in 3 U.S. adults has at least one of these conditions or habits.

Servais encourages individuals to familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of stroke and to seek immediate medical attention if they or someone they know exhibits these symptoms. Symptoms of stroke include:

• facial droop
• arm/leg weakness
• visual changes
• slurred speech
• loss of balance/lack of coordination
• dizziness
• difficulty swallowing

May is American Stroke Month.

Press Contact

Rick Thiesse
e-mail: thiesse.ricky@mayo.edu
phone: 608-392-9425