The Sconi

Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital in Wisconsin is enhancing stroke care for patients in the Northwoods by adopting national best practices from the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines program. This initiative focuses on providing timely and effective treatment to patients in rural areas where every minute counts.

“Get With The Guidelines is a data-driven, hospital-based quality improvement program,” said Sarah Sherman, RN, from Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital's Emergency Department. “It helps us track our metrics, but more importantly, it improves our patient care.”

The hospital has implemented a streamlined stroke response system that activates even before patients arrive. Collin Zoellner, a Paramedic and Aspirus MedEvac Supervisor, explained: “When we recognize the signs of stroke, we call ahead and activate a ‘code stroke.’ That gives the emergency room time to get the CT scanner ready and assemble the team.”

Staff and EMS providers are trained to quickly identify stroke symptoms using the BE FAST acronym—Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time—and act promptly. Sherman stated: “We want our doctors to see the patient within 10 minutes and have them in the CT scanner within 25. If Tenecteplase is indicated, we aim to administer it within 60 minutes of arrival.”

Additionally, teleneurology consultations through Access TeleCare offer immediate access to stroke specialists regardless of location. Sherman noted: “We’ve had neurologists from across the country on screen within minutes. That’s been incredibly beneficial for our patients.”

Collaboration with EMS has also improved communication and continuity of care. Zoellner added: “We’ve really focused on filling communication gaps. That includes upgraded ambulance radios and dedicated cell phones to keep the connection strong with the hospital.”

Sherman highlighted the positive outcomes of these efforts: “Our stroke activations are happening faster. Our metrics are improving. And ultimately, our patients are getting better care—which is the goal.”

The hospital also emphasizes post-acute care education for patients and their families. Bob Towne, RN, Supervisor at Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital said: “A key part of our stroke care approach is making sure patients and their families leave with clear, thorough education.” He stressed that understanding risk factors and recognizing warning signs are crucial for preventing future strokes.

Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital’s dedication to rapid response and continuous improvement aims to provide high-level stroke care locally when needed most.

For more information about Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital, visit aspirus.org.