August 5, 2025National Stroke Week is here again, and this year we’re viewing it through the lens of our dedicated Northern Stroke Nurses – the frontline champions who bring their expertise and compassion to stroke care every day.
“Ensuring that our patients and their relatives know the FAST signs is a fundamental part of stroke nursing care,” says Bonnie Zhao (ANUM), one of five Ward 21 nurses currently undertaking postgraduate studies in neurology.
“A stroke is always a medical emergency, and getting to hospital quickly gives people the best possible chance of accessing the right treatments and making a good recovery.”
The Stroke Foundation continues to raise awareness of the F.A.S.T. test – a simple way to remember the most common signs of stroke:
- Face – Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
- Arms – Can they lift both arms?
- Speech – Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
- Time – Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 immediately.
“Working on a stroke ward, I see first-hand the consequences of people taking too long to call 000,” says Ward 21 NUM Nadine Stowell. “I make sure all my family know the FAST signs and understand the urgency.”
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in Australia. The pillars of effective stroke care include rapid hospital access, multidisciplinary team assessments, and specialised stroke unit care—all of which are driven by the skill and dedication of our nursing team.
“This Stroke Week is a great time to acknowledge the incredible enthusiasm and commitment of the Ward 21 nursing staff, led by NUMs Nadine Stowell and Erin Behan,” says Head of Neurology, Dr Doug Crompton.
“Their work in developing stroke and neurology expertise has enabled the opening of our Neurology HDU, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care. We’re especially proud of the number of nurses pursuing postgraduate study—it’s a testament to their passion and the strength of our team.”
The Stroke Foundation website offers brochures and videos in English and other languages to help people learn about stroke and the FAST message. This week, we encourage everyone to take a moment to learn the signs—and thank the nurses who make stroke care possible.
Featured image shows:
Front: Bonnie Zhao (ANUM), Helen Hirmiz (CNS), Nadine Stowell (NUM)
Back: Anne Rodda (NP), Liz Mackey (NP)
