First Stroke Patient treated in the Midlands via Telemedicine
First Stroke Patient treated in the Midlands via Telemedicine
Pictured with the new technology 'RP-7 Telemedicine Robot' at the Midland Regional Hospital at Mullingar are the team of professionals who are responsible for treating the first patient in Ireland via telemedicine.
The technological break through means that patients who are admitted with a stroke to Tallaght Hospital, Naas Hospital and Mullingar Hospital can access a specialist stoke physician at evenings and weekends through remote audio visual equipment (robot).
The pilot project, which got underway earlier this year, treated its first patient this weekend, an 81 year old woman who presented at Mullingar Hospital on Sunday afternoon, after suffering a stroke that same day. The patient was initially assessed by Emergency Medical personnel while being transferred to the Hospital where staff were awaiting her arrival.
The on call Physician in Tallaght, Professor Des O'Neill expertly guided the on site team in Mullingar after he assessed the patient using the remote technology, which also allowed him to assess the patients scans, before guiding the onsite doctor to administer the clot busting drugs to the patient.
Today Professor Sean Murphy at the Midland Regional Hospital at Mullingar welcomed the break through and complimented all those involved with the Dublin Midlands Stroke Network, "A lot of work has gone into establishing this stroke network with substantial support across many departments."
"Time is brain when you are dealing with stroke patients. It is paramount that if there are symptoms of stroke, people should dial 999 immediately.
Know the signs of Stroke and act FAST
How do you recognise a stroke?
Stroke symptoms include:
* Numbness, weakness, or paralysis on one side of the body
* Slurred speech, difficulty thinking of words or understanding other people
* Confusion
* Sudden blurred vision or sight loss
* Being unsteady on your feet
* Severe headache
How to Act F.A.S.T.
A simple test can help you recognise if someone has had a stroke:
Facial weakness - can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
Arm weakness - can the person raise both arms?
Speech problems - can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
Time to call 999 for an ambulance if you spot any one of these signs.
