As a local leader in advanced neuro care, Sacramento Medical Center expanded the Wellness to Prevent Stroke and Wellness After Stroke educational programs. These free educational programs are open to both members and non-members. It focuses on community education regarding stroke prevention, lifestyle modification, rehabilitation, social services and spiritual care, and recovery after stroke. The participants learn to recognize stroke signs and symptoms, make lifestyle modifications—diet, exercise, and stress management—and adhere to prescribed medications.
Taught by a multidisciplinary team of clinical nurses, dietitians, and other health professionals specializing in stroke care and prevention, the program has been warmly received, and classes are now being held in assisted living facilities, where patients are usually placed while recovering after a stroke, bringing needed education to stroke patients, caregivers, and the community.
Almaz Haile, MSN, RN, CCNS, a Neuro Clinical Nurse Specialist who facilitates the program, shared: “It’s rewarding to see patients and their caregivers learn about stroke prevention through lifestyle changes and to witness stroke survivors and their families regain confidence in their recovery. This program equips participants with valuable knowledge, empowering them to make informed health decisions to make lifestyle changes and promote overall health and wellness.”
Patient D. Gomez suffered an ischemic stroke and attended the Wellness After-Stroke class; he shared: “I didn’t realize how much my diet could impact my health. Learning about the foods by reading the food labels helps me watch what I eat, and it’s important because I have high blood pressure. I now understand how to avoid food high is salt. I highly recommend this class to other patients.”