After surgery, Maya is admitted to the hospital as an inpatient for four days to recover. The day after surgery, she begins her therapy. Despite the therapy, she experiences spasticity in her right hand and must receive Botox® treatments. She receives injections in the hospital. The treatments will continue to help relieve the pain and stiffness. While her condition improves in the hospital, it may take months, or years to regain even a fraction of her previous abilities and lifestyle. The care team continues to document and monitor her health information in her EHR.


Additionally, Maya may experience emotional and behavioral changes. When a stroke occurs, it may alter the emotional control center in the brain which may lead to increased worry, sadness and decreased interest in activities that were previously enjoyed.


Maya, her care team and her daughter will begin to plan for Maya’s release while she is still in the hospital. After leaving the hospital, Maya will be moved to a facility where she will continue her recovery. Once she leaves the facility, she must continue her therapy on her own to improve her abilities.


  1. Review the Video: While Maya is in surgery, her daughter is asked to watch the video to prepare for her mom’s recovery. From the list below, which three facts would Maya’s daughter note as important for her mom’s recovery at home.
    A. She might experience memory or problem solving challenges.
    B. She may experience personality changes.
    C. Her care can be given by only one person.
    D. She may experience spasticity and need physical therapy.


  2. Internet Research: Each of the statements below are considered a myth when talking about strokes. Match the myth with the truth.
    ______ A. Strokes are not preventable. 1. Strokes take place in the brain. The cells of your brain get cut off from their blood supply and they die.
    ______ B. Strokes take place in the heart. 2. Almost 25% of strokes occur in people younger than 65.
    ______ C. Strokes only happen to elderly people. 3. Strokes occur slightly more often in women than in men.
    ______ D. Women are not likely to have strokes. 4. Recovery from a stroke can take up to two years; sometimes longer.
    ______ E. Stroke recovery only happens in the first few months. 5. 90% of strokes can be attributed to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes – all of which are preventable.


View Maya’s EHR – Inpatient Chart