(Pictured is Carlee H. and Madison L. who are both RN’s in Hamilton Memorial’s Emergency Department.)
A recent emergency at Hamilton Memorial Hospital serves as a powerful testament to the critical importance of rapid response and expert teamwork in stroke care. When a patient arrived at the Emergency Department showing signs of a stroke—where every second can determine the outcome—staff members sprang into action with precision and urgency.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of two Emergency Department nurses along with the hospital’s lab, radiology, and ED teams, the patient received vital stroke medication just 45 minutes after arrival, far exceeding the national “door-to-needle” benchmark of 60 minutes set by the American Stroke Association.
“This kind of outcome doesn’t happen by chance,” said Chief Nursing Officer Jenee Wilson. “It reflects the high level of training, coordination, and commitment that our team brings to every emergency situation.”
Hamilton Memorial Hospital District (HMHD) is an IDPH Designated Stroke Ready Facility, meaning it meets stringent state standards to deliver immediate, effective care for stroke patients. This ensures residents in and around McLeansboro can receive high-quality, lifesaving treatment without having to travel to distant urban hospitals.
“Our community deserves access to the best care—right here, close to home,” said Victoria Woodrow, CEO of HMHD. “This is a powerful reminder of why emergency readiness in rural communities matters.”
Hamilton Memorial’s 24/7 Emergency Department is equipped to handle a full range of emergencies, including strokes, cardiac events, trauma, and acute illnesses. The hospital’s dedication to preparedness and patient-centered care continues to offer the local community the best possible outcomes—when every second counts.
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