Jan Jahnel, RN, CNRN

"The stroke patient has absolutely priority coming into the Emergency Department.  We need to get things done as quickly as possible."

As Stroke Nurse Coordinator, Jan works with other departments to enhance the quality of neurological care.  "Time is brain. When a patient is admitted with the signs and symptoms of a stroke and that ‘fast-three-three' page goes out, the CT scan team has 10-15 minutes to clear a bed for the patient   And believe me, they're usually ready way before that."

What interested her in the Stroke Nurse Coordinator position?  "I love the cases and the patients.  I find the brain absolutely fascinating.   It is the body's computer.  Without it working properly, you can live...but you can't function."

For the team, Jan says the attitude is "all about the patient.  We want to give the best care that we possibly can, always.

"But personally, what I live by is this:  I want every patient to receive the care that I'd expect for any of my loved ones, the same as for family."