First for Wagga Wagga stroke unit
Wagga Wagga Base Hospital’s stroke unit is one of the first in Australia to receive Primary Stroke Centre certification by the Australian Stroke Coalition. It is the first unit in regional NSW to achieve this recognition. Certification is achieved by meeting a set of criteria that indicate consistent, high quality stroke care. Congratulations to the stroke team at Wagga Wagga!
New networking event for metro stroke clinicians
The ACI hosted an in-person networking event on 27 July for metro-based stroke clinical nurse consultants and nurse practitioners. It was an opportunity for expert clinicians to connect, share ideas and discuss future planning. This group will be formalised as part of the Stroke Network with the appointment of a Chair and development of terms of reference. Similar networking events will be planned for rural clinical nurse consultants and nurse practitioners; stay tuned for details.
Rural Stroke Mentorship Program
The network is relaunching the Rural Stroke Mentorship Program. The program involves a three-day rotation through four high-volume stroke centres in metropolitan Sydney. Acceptance will be via a merit-based application process. It requires the support of the local manager for metro Sydney hospital rotations, as well as ongoing work with a mentor and the ACI to complete a stroke-related project. For further information, contact Stroke Network Manager Danielle Wheelwright at aci-stroke@health.nsw.gov.au.
Welcomes and farewells
The network welcomes Amanda Buzio as the new Nursing Co-Chair. Amanda brings a wealth of experience from her current role as Stroke Clinical Nurse Coordinator at the Coffs Clinical Network, Mid North Coast LHD, as well as per previous role overseeing community rehabilitation programs at Royal Rehab in Sydney. Thank you also to outgoing Co-Chair Kylie Tastula for her valuable contribution over many years in this role.