Our Care Team
At WakeMed, stroke patients are seen by a diverse team of medical professionals who specialize in the care of stroke. The physician leads the team and may request that cardiologists, pulmonologists or neurologists get involved.
Other Specialist Who May Assist in Care
- Emergency physicians
- Hospital medicine physicians/intensivists
- Neurosurgeons
- Radiologists
- Neuroradiologists
- Physiatrists (rehabilitation physicians)
- Neuropsychiatrists
- Allied health professionals
- Imaging technologists
- Cardiovascular technologists
- Respiratory care specialists
- Pharmacists
- Spiritual care chaplains
Care Team During Rehabilitation
Stroke Navigator
After discharge, our Stroke Navigator, Mary Jo Kelley, will ensure your transition back to your normal life. You can email her with questions or concerns.
Clinical dietitian
A licensed professional specifically trained in nutrition and its effects on the body, who will develop a nutrition care plan tailored to individual needs.
Occupational therapist
The occupational therapist (OT) works with patients to help perform daily living activities such as eating, dressing, bathing and grooming, and more complex tasks such as planning a menu, shopping for groceries and cooking a meal.
Physical therapist
The physical therapist (PT) works to improve overall strength, endurance, balance and coordination.
Registered nurse
The registered nurse (RN) is a professional with experience in caring for patients with disabilities and illnesses.
Speech-language pathologist
The speech-language pathologist (SLP) evaluates and treats speech, language, voice and thought processing disorders. The SLP also evaluates and treats swallowing disorders.
Social worker and case manager
The social worker and case manager help develop a plan to make leaving the hospital as easy as possible:
- Arranging for home health and medical equipment
- Finding an appropriate rehabilitation or long-term care facility, if needed
- Linking to other community resources
- Helping with emotional or social concerns
If you wish to speak with a social worker or nurse case manager, call 919-350-8127, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On weekends and holidays, ask your nurse to get in touch with us. There is no charge for our services.