The Post-acute Collaborative Participation Award from the Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) recognizes post-acute facilities that participate in the Collaborative and have shown dedication in improving the care stroke patients receive in a post-hospital setting.

STONEHAM, MA — Bear Hill Rehabilitation and Nursing Center has been recognized with the Post-acute Collaborative Participation Award from the Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). The award recognizes post-acute facilities that participate in the Collaborative and have shown dedication in improving the care stroke patients receive in the post-hospital setting.

Collaborative participants have been collecting data on stroke patients, participating in regional meetings and learning session, and participating in quality improvement activities in their facilities.

“At Bear Hill we strive to provide exceptional care to all our patients. We are proud to be working on improving the post-acute care of stroke patients. Being honored by this award emphasizes the importance of our work,” said Peg Archidiacono, RN, Director of Nursing at Bear Hill.

Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in the Commonwealth, and a leading cause of adult disability. Immediate assessment and treatment is critical to help improve outcomes.

Knowing the key signs and symptoms of stroke and calling 9-1-1 immediately can save a life. The F.A.S.T. acronym is an easy way to remember:

• Face: Does the face look uneven? Ask the person to smile

• Arm: Does one arm drift down? Ask the person to raise both arms

• Speech: Does the speech sound strange? Ask the person to repeat a phrase

• Time: Time is vital: If you observe these symptoms, call 9-1-1

For more information about the Massachusetts Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Registry, or about FAST and the DPH stroke awareness campaign, please visit: www.mass.gov/dph/heartstroke.

Bear Hill Rehabilitation and Nursing Center has been providing outstanding health care in the Boston area since 1983. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health designated Bear Hill as a Coverdell Post-Hospital QI Collaborative member in 2014. For more information, please contact Peg Archidiacono, RN, Director of Nursing at 781-438-8515 or via email at pega@bearhillrehab.com.