The Integrated Stroke Unit, or ISU, is located on the first floor of the South Building, next to the Continuing Care Centre.

The nursing station is the heart of the Integrated Stroke Unit - a busy hub where care, communication, and coordination come together. Visitors are asked to sign in at the nursing station upon arrival so that staff can help guide them and ensure a safe, comfortable environment for everyone on the unit.

From the central nursing station, our Unit Clerk coordinates patient appointments, answers phone calls, and plays a vital role in keeping the unit organized and running smoothly.

The ISU includes eight beds - three designated for acute stroke care and five for stroke rehabilitation. Each patient room features a communication board, which helps keep everyone connected. Care teams use the board to share important updates, while patients and families can leave messages or notes for the team to support ongoing communication and collaboration..

Along one wall of the unit, you’ll find a collection of aphasia-friendly resources designed to support patients who experience challenges with speech or language after a stroke. These resources include visual aids and written materials with simple words and pictures to help patients express their needs and understand information. Families are also encouraged to use these tools when communicating with their loved one, helping to promote confidence, connection, and participation in recovery.

The shower room is spacious and fully equipped with specialized devices to support patients as they regain independence with personal care. Safety features and adaptive equipment allow patients to shower comfortably and confidently, with assistance from trained staff when needed.

Nurses use “Workstations on Wheels,” or WOWs, to bring technology directly to the bedside. These mobile stations allow staff to securely access patient information, document care in real time, and administer medications efficiently - ensuring accuracy, safety, and seamless communication across the care team.

Many patients on the Stroke Unit enjoy spending time by the large windows that overlook a peaceful garden area, offering plenty of natural light and a calming view. For those who wish to enjoy some fresh air, the unit also provides access to an outdoor patio - a welcoming space where patients can relax or visit with family and friends in a comfortable, healing environment.

There are two dedicated physicians who work on the ISU, along with a neurologist. These physicians have their own workspace on the unit, where they review test results, update patient charts, and collaborate with the care team to plan treatment and rehabilitation goals. They also meet with patients and families to discuss progress, answer questions, and provide guidance throughout recovery. If you see Dr. Hammond, Dr. Rioux, or Dr. Umanah on the unit, be sure to say hello.

Meet Lillian - a key member of our Secondary Stroke Prevention Clinic team. This clinic supports patients who have experienced symptoms of an urgent Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or a mild stroke, ensuring they receive prompt assessment and care from providers who specialize in stroke prevention. The clinic also follows up with patients from STEGH’s Integrated Stroke Unit who need additional testing or ongoing monitoring to reduce the risk of future strokes.

The Independent Living Suite, located on the Integrated Stroke Unit, offers patients a safe space to practice independence as they prepare to return home. Designed to resemble a home environment, the suite allows patients to rehearse daily activities such as dressing and personal care, while still having support close by. The care team is available to assist when needed and provides guidance to help patients build confidence and independence before discharge.

The Independent Living Suite also features a kitchen area, where patients can practice preparing simple meals as part of their recovery. This hands-on experience helps build confidence and reinforces important daily living skills, supporting a smooth and successful transition home after discharge.

The Stroke Gym is equipped with a variety of tools and devices used to support recovery and rehabilitation. One of the key features is the rehab bike - a valuable piece of equipment that offers a seated, low-impact way to improve cardiovascular health, strength, and mobility. Its reciprocal motion helps patients “get their body back in tune” by engaging both the stronger and weaker sides of the body simultaneously. This promotes balance, stretches tight muscles, increases range of motion, and builds endurance. The bike also provides visual feedback on leg usage, helping patients and therapists track progress and enhance function over time.

Our physiotherapy and occupational therapy teams work with patients in the Stroke Gym to help them regain strength, balance, and independence after a stroke. Through personalized exercises and activities, therapists focus on improving mobility, coordination, and everyday functional skills such as walking, dressing, and reaching. The team also teaches patients safe movement techniques and provides strategies and adaptive tools to support their return to daily life at home.

The Speech-Language Pathology team plays an important role in helping stroke patients regain their ability to communicate and swallow safely. They assess and treat difficulties with speech, language, voice, and cognition, as well as swallowing challenges that can occur after a stroke. Through individualized therapy, education, and exercises, they support patients in rebuilding confidence and improving their ability to connect with others and enjoy everyday activities.