Inpatient stroke rehabilitation

As the only service of its kind in the Ottawa region, the inpatient stroke rehabilitation unit at Bruyère Health Élisabeth-Bruyère Hospital is a 33-bed specialized stroke rehab program.

Stroke rehabilitation is an important part of recovery after the stroke. Patients receive comprehensive assessments and intensive, daily therapies in an environment that is designed to reinforce and consolidate new skills.

Having a stroke is a major life changing event, both for the person who suffered the stroke as well as for the family and friends who support them. Loved ones are encouraged to participate in the rehabilitation process and in planning for discharge.

Admission criteria

• Confirmed diagnosis of stroke
• Medically stable and investigations completed
• Requires interdisciplinary team care
• Stamina to participate in the program
• Able to follow commands and demonstrate carry-over
• Have identified goals that are specific, measurable and timely

What to expect during your stay?

A first-time rehab admission can initially feel overwhelming. This virtual orientation video provides patients and their loved ones information on what to expect during a rehab stay.

Discharge process

We begin your discharge planning the day you arrive. Throughout your stay, your rehabilitation care team will assist you and your family in planning your discharge to an appropriate environment that will meet your needs.

Rehabilitation Team

Our stroke rehabilitation program consists of a specialized interprofessional team that includes:

• Physicians: They are the team leaders. All patients have two physicians caring for them during the rehab stay. A hospitalist will coordinate daily care and follow up with any health concerns. Patients will also be working with a physiatrist, who is a stroke rehabilitation specialist and will look at the big picture to help restore function. The two collaborate closely to help patients during their recovery journey
• Nurses: They are the team member patients and families will see the most. They look after daily needs and provide care 24 hours a day. They provide patients with the coaching, education and support that is required to attain maximal function and health.
• Social workers: They provide support to the patient, as well as their families during the rehab stay. They will help navigate the discharge process by reviewing discharge options with the patient and their caregiver / loved ones.
• Dietitians: They personalize nutrition recommendations to support the prevention and management of chronic disease, such as diabetes. They can also provide patients with advice to optimize healthy living as a stroke survivor.
• Physiotherapists: They are movement specialists. They will help patients regain strength, coordination and balance to increase mobility and independence.
• Occupational therapists: They are activity specialists. They will help patients return to their typical daily activities, access the home and recommend assistive devices and equipment to improve independence.
• Speech language pathologists: They are communication specialists. They perform assessments and develop treatment plans to help with things like speaking, understanding, reading and writing, among others. They also have specialized knowledge in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders and will make recommendations to allow the patient to eat and drink safely.
• Rehab assistants: They will help patients work through the exercises given to them by the therapist as well as provide support during treatment sessions.
• Pharmacists: They have expertise to ensure that patients are on safe and effective medications and are here to answer any questions patients and their caregivers/loved ones may have about the prescriptions.
• Spiritual care: They offer non-denominational or religious support based on the patient’s needs. They create a safe space where patients and their caregivers/loved ones can express their emotions, talk about the challenges and process the life challenges with which they are faced.
• Researchers: The innovative work of investigators at the Bruyère Health Research Institute contributes to a better, more responsive health care system. As a patient, you may be asked to participate in this research that will help improve care to Canadians. 

How do I refer?

 

Any registered healthcare provider can submit a referral. 

Effective December 2, 2024, referrals for Complex Care should be submitted through the Ocean eReferral website.

 

Allied Health Professionals: please consult this document for setting up your account.

 

Physicians and Nurse Practitioners: please click here to get started: Get Started with Ocean - OceanMD

Questions about how to use Ocean? Click here.

Clinical Admissions Coordinator
Bruyère Health Saint-Vincent Hospital
60 Cambridge Street North
Ottawa, ON K1R 7A5
Tel.: 613-562-6262, ext. 1488