Acute Stroke Unit - ‘ASU’

Practical Information

General Sheffield Teaching Hospital information can be found here

Visiting

Ward H2, H Floor, Royal Hallamshire Hospital
Visiting times are 8.00am - 8.00pm (although where family support with mealtimes is helpful  visiting may vary – talk to the staff for information)

Parking 

The multi-storey car park at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital is open everyday from 6:30am until 10:30pm.
Up to 2 hours - £2.50
Up to 4 hours - £3.70
Over 4 hours - £8.40

Food and drink

Many patients may be on special diets and drinks.  Please check with ward staff before bringing in food

Interpretation 

If you or your family member need some help speaking or understanding English we can arrange for an interpreter.  Please ask a member of staff.

Queries about your care

If you have any questions or are unhappy with any aspect of your care please talk to the team.  

There is also a patient liaison service if you are unable to sort out the issues directly with our team.

Department

Number

Royal Hallamshire Hospital Switchboard

Acute Stroke Unit – Ward H2

Physiotherapy/ Occupational Therapy Office

Speech & Language Therapy Office

Orthoptics

Psychology

Entering the Acute Stroke unit

On the Acute Stroke unit you will be beginning to engage in rehabilitation even if this is in a very small way. Wherever possible we will help you to get out of bed and dressed. It would be helpful if someone could bring in some toiletries, clothes and footwear.

There will be discussions on the ward about the next steps for you. Family meetings are often arranged. Some patients may need 24 hour care after their stroke and this would be discussed at these meetings.

For some people there are decisions to be made about how you are fed e.g. tube feeding.

Leaving the Acute Stroke unit

Some people may be able to go home from this unit with support.

Some people will need more therapy input from our community Stroke Rehabilitation unit ‘Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation centre’ .

Some people will require 24 hour care and this will be discussed with you on the ward.

Stroke Consultants & Hospital Doctors

The doctors are responsible for investigating the cause of your stroke. They will usually arrange for certain tests. They will take a full medical history from you.

Stroke Nurse Practitioners

The Stroke nurses will usually be the first people you meet from the team. They will assess you as soon as you are arrive and provide information and support.

Stroke Nurses and Support Workers on the ward

The nursing staff will monitor you daily. They are there to make sure you are safe and cared for and that you have the support and advice you need.

Pharmacist

The pharmacy team will ensure that any medicines prescribed for you are safe. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication you can ask to talk to a member of the pharmacy team.

Physiotherapist (PT)

Physiotherapy following a stroke begins as soon as possible. It may involve techniques and exercise to improve the control and movement of the body. The aim of treatment is to enable you to become as independent as possible in everyday life. Therapy will be directed towards your own personal goals.

Occupational Therapist (OT)

The Occupational therapist will see how the stroke has affected your ability to carry out and organise everyday activities. They may also look at your thinking skills such as concentration and memory. Therapy will be directed towards your own personal goals.

Speech & Language Therapist (SLT)

A stroke can lead to problems affecting your speaking, understanding, reading & writing. The ability to swallow food and drink may also be affected. You will work with the Speech and Language therapist on any communication and swallowing changes.

Dietitians

You may need to see a dietitian. They can assess your nutritional needs and advise how these should be met.

Orthoptist

Visual problems are common after a stroke and this can affect the rest of your rehabilitation. Orthoptists are eye-care professionals who assess how a stroke has affected your vision.

Psychologist

Many people see a psychologist after having a stroke, which can feel scary at first. Reasons for this might be anxious thoughts and worries, low mood, Intense emotions, changes in cognitive ability or adjusting to life after stroke. The psychologist is there to support you and your loved ones with these changes.