If you or someone else experiences the signs of stroke, no matter how long they last, call triple zero (000) immediately. When you call triple zero (000), warn them it is a possible stroke when the ambulance is sent.

What is a Code Stroke?

When a person with suspected stroke arrives at hospital, a Code Stroke* may be activated to help specialist teams assess, diagnose and treat them as quickly as possible. The below video is a general overview of what you may expect, from ambulance arrival and emergency assessment through to treatment, recovery and discharge.

*Please note that Code Stroke pathways may vary between hospitals and health services. This video is intended as a general guide only.

With thanks to Eastern Health, Austin Health and Ambulance Victoria for their participation in this collaborative video.

Stroke units

Care on a stroke unit is one of the most effective ways of treating a person after a stroke.

A stroke unit is an area in a hospital where there is a specialised stroke team. Unfortunately not all hospitals have a specialised stroke unit, so you may be treated in a general hospital ward.

Testing and treatment for stroke

Are you a healthcare professional? Improve your treatment of stroke care with our evidence-based resources on InformMe.