ALEXANDRIA, La., Feb. 16, 2012 – Rapides Regional Medical Center has been re-certified as Central Louisiana's only "Certified Advanced Primary Stroke Center."
The Advanced Primary Stroke Center was first certified in 2009 for two years and recently underwent review by The Joint Commission, an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 17,000 healthcare organizations and programs in the United States.
The new certification is for an additional two years. Rapides Regional is one of seven hospitals in Louisiana with a certified stroke center, and the only one in north or central Louisiana.
"This certification means that we are specialized in stroke care," said Lynn Randall, RN, BSN, MSN, the Coordinator of Cardiovascular Quality Initiatives at Rapides Regional. "We offer a full range of care, from the minute the patient comes through our door to discharge. Our processes are based on all the recommended guidelines for the best possible outcomes."
The Advanced Primary Stroke Center treats about 40 patients a month, including transfers.