Acute Stroke Unit - ‘ASU’
Ward H2, Royal Hallamshire Hospital
Practical Information
General Sheffield teaching hospital information can be found at https://www.sth.nhs.uk/visitors
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. www.sth.nhs.uk/patients/patient-services
Ward Contacts
| Department | Number |
|---|---|
| Royal Hallamshire Hospital Switchboard | 0114 271 1900 |
| Acute Stroke Unit – Ward H2 | 0114 271 3824 |
| Physiotherapy/ Occupational Therapy Office | 0114 271 3635 |
| Speech & Language Therapy Office | 0114 271 3822 |
| Orthoptics | 0114 271 3021 |
| Psychology | 0114 226 8708 |
What to Expect
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.
Meet The Team
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.
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Speech & Language Therapist (SLT)
A stroke can lead to problems affecting your speaking, understanding, reading & writing. The Speech and Language therapist will help you understand these changes. They will see what helps you communicate. Swallowing food and drink can become difficult or unsafe after a stroke. This may have led to a special diet or thickened drinks or needing alternative feeding. We will review this regularly and see what exercises might help.
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.