Avera Neuroscience Institute Stroke Center
Stroke ranks as the third leading killer in the United States, affecting over 750,000 each year. We provide an integrated and comprehensive approach to stroke care. Our dedicated staff is trained in early and appropriate diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, home care and outpatient care.
Avera McKennan’s Stroke Center is certified as a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, and is nationally recognized for excellence. Achievement of certification signifies that the services a facility provides have the critical elements to achieve long-term success in improving outcome.
Stroke Center Program
Our Stroke Program
As a participant in the American Stroke Association's "Get with the Guidelines" SM program, the Stroke Center focuses on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up of stroke patients. From the moment a patient arrives, our team is ready to provide evaluation and treatment.
Our program provides:
- 24 hour coverage by certified stroke nurses
- Emergency department care transfer
- Immediate intervention and management of acute stroke
- State-of-the-art neurodiagnostic techniques
- Dedicated neuroscience unit
- Dedicated neuroscience case management
- Complete rehabilitation program
- Outpatient stroke clinic
- Patient outcome tracking system
- Access to clinical trials for treatment of ischemic stroke
- Community and professional educational programs
- Community stroke screening
- Collaboration with the American Stroke Association
- Member of the National Stroke Association
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Warning Signs
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts, causing part of the brain to start to die due to lack of oxygen. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of disability.
What are the warning signs of stroke?
Memorize 'Give Me 5' to learn the warning signs of a stroke:
- Walk (Is their balance off?)
- Talk (Is their speech slurred or face droopy?)
- Reach (Is one side weak or numb?)
- See (Is their vision all or partially lost?)
- Feel (Is their headache severe?)
If any of these symptoms occur, seek prompt treatment. Take the symptoms seriously and take action. Seek help immediately by dialing 911 or your local emergency medical services.
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Risk Factors
What are the controllable risk factors of stroke?
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Lifestyle issues (obesity, lack of exercise)
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Resources & Media
Listen to Our Expert Discuss Stroke
Dr. William Rossing, Stroke Center Medical Director, discusses the signs, symptoms and treatment of stroke on Avera McKennan's Housecalls podcast. Listen now »
Avera Medical Minute
Stroke Education
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If you have any questions or would like information on a physician referral, please call
1-877-AT-AVERA.
