Jennifer P.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
By: Jennifer Parreira

Healthcare Professional

I am a Nurse Practitioner and Stroke Program Coordinator. Caring for and advocating for Stroke patients is very important to me because stroke has touched my life personally. My Grandmother had a stroke. Many people, including my grandmother, have not had adequate education about stroke prevention and what to do if they experienced any signs of stroke. Experiencing a stroke in my personal life has enhanced my nursing practice. I've always enjoyed caring for Neuro patients, but now my grandma always comes to mind with each patient I care for. Each patient should be treated like a loved one. I would want all the people I love to be knowledgeable of the risk factors for stroke and know what to do if they ever experience symptoms of a stroke. I want the same for the people in our community, their families, and my patients. I visit with each and every stroke patient that enters my hospital. My goal is to be a resource to them and their families while they are in my hospital and after they go home. I also provide a monthly stroke class called, "Stroke 411: Now and After". The goal of the class is to provide support, review medications, check blood pressures, and educate. Because resources once you leave the hospital may be limited, we encourage all stroke patients that are discharged home, to attend. My ultimate goal is to prevent any of my patients from having another stroke. Then I know I've done my job.