During recuperation from a stroke, some patients may need a little extra time for specialized rehabilitation before it is safe for them to return home. The University of Kansas Health System Pawnee Valley Campus can accommodate when this happens.

In observance of Stroke Awareness Month, Chelsea Laramore explained the swing-bed services at the hospital where physical, occupational and speech therapies are offered in-house for patients who need to regain their strength.

“Our community is fortunate that we offer all three disciplines with our own staff,” said Laramore, rehab director and occupational therapist. “Swing-bed rehab is often the answer when stroke and other patients are not quite ready to go home.

“During this rehab, patients gain strength and balance, which leads to more independence,” she explained. “Our therapists help patients get back to their regular daily activities so they can return home feeling confident and safe.”

In addition to Laramore, Kortney Traylor also is an occupational therapist, while Angela Meitner is an occupational therapy assistant. Physical therapists are Jason Rath, Eloise Doran and Alyssa Linn; Jessica Poe is a physical therapy assistant. Mary Vilaysing is the speech/language pathologist.

Tina Gladow, social worker, helps arrange for swing-bed care.

Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to the brain and within the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. When this happens, part of the brain cannot receive the blood and oxygen it needs.

Signs of a stroke are represented by the acronym F.A.S.T. These letters stand for:

• Face drooping when someone smiles

• Arm drifting downward after raising both arms

• Speech sounding strange

• Time to call 911 for any or all symptoms

“F.A.S.T. is a great way to remind us that it is so important to recognize the signs of stroke and seek medical care as quickly as possible,” Laramore said. “The sooner treatment begins the better the outcome can be.”