Because a stroke can lead to the loss of use of the part of the brain that is affected, it should be treated with the same urgency as a heart attack and the person experiencing the symptoms should obtain medical help immediately. A Stroke Most stroke survivors can benefit from some level of rehabilitation. The goal of rehabilitation following a stroke is to help the stroke survivor achieve the best possible recovery and maximize function. Patients relearn skills they had before the stroke, such as walking and speaking, and also learn new ways to do things that can no longer be done the old way. The rehabilitation process often begins while the patient is still in the acute care hospital and, for many patients, continues after the patient goes home.
Rehabilitation can take place in many settings including rehabilitation hospitals.
A program such as this is generally very intensive, requiring patients to participate in many different types of therapy for several hours each day. Other settings in which rehabilitation can be provided include nursing homes, outpatient therapy centers and in the home. Rehabilitation nurses assist with nursing issues such as skin care, bowel and bladder care and education. Physical therapists evaluate and treat problems such as moving, balance, and coordination. They provide training and exercises to improve mobility.