Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Stroke Center – Your partner in Stroke Prevention, Treatment and Recovery

Raritan Bay Medical Center is a state-designated Primary Stroke Center promoting a comprehensive approach to stoke care.  With a full continuum of preventive, diagnostic, treatment and rehabilitative  services, the center provides dedicated, highly skilled stroke specialists – including emergency medicine physicians and staff neurologists, radiologists, internists, nurses, speech pathologists, physical and occupational therapists, pharmacies and social workers.

Eighty percent of strokes are preventable, AND most strokes are treatable.

A majority of stroke victims can experience a complete recovery when treated within three hours of the stroke’s onset.

Know all the facts about stroke before one occurs.  This may save your life or the life of a loved one.

What is stroke?

A stroke, or “brain attack,” occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is blocked by a clot or ruptures. This prevents the brain from getting the blood and oxygen it needs, causing brain cells to die. When that happens, individuals may suffer irreversible brain damage, including paralysis and mental impairment. The stroke’s impact will depend on such factors as the precise location of the clot or rupture, how much of the brain has been damaged, and how quickly treatment is administered. There are two primary types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. About 80 percent of strokes are ischemic, caused by a blocked brain vessel. Less common are hemorrhagic strokes, which occur when a vessel ruptures and bleeds into surrounding areas of the brain.

Some individuals suffer from a TIA (transient ischemic attack), also known as a “mini stroke.” During this condition, a blood clot obstructs the flow of blood to the brain for a short period of time and resolves itself. Although symptoms disappear quickly, if left untreated a TIA will put you at ten times the risk for stroke.

What are the signs of stroke?

Stroke is a medical emergency. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately or get to the closest hospital emergency room. Every second counts because time lost is brain lost.

Why is treatment urgent?

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

When stroke occurs, nearly two million brain cells are lost with each passing minute. That’s why it is critical for victims to recognize the early warning signs and receive rapid medical intervention. Left to run its natural course, a stroke can destroy 1.2 billion cells resulting in permanent brain damage.

More than 80 percent of strokes can be effectively treated with the FDA-approved, clot-busting drug known as TPA (tissue plasminogen activator). When administered within three hours of stroke symptoms, this medication stops a stroke in its tracks by dissolving the blood clot and restoring blood flow to the brain. It can mean the difference between permanent disability and a full recovery. There is a three-hour window for successfully treating stroke with TPA making it essential that individuals arrive at the hospital within one hour of experiencing stroke symptoms. Other therapeutic options may include surgery, endovascular procedures and rehabilitative therapies.

Am I at risk for stroke?

There are several risk factors that increase your chances of suffering a stroke. Some are related to hereditary or conditions beyond your control, while others can be changed or managed through healthier lifestyles and medical intervention.

Risk factors include:

• High Blood Pressure
• High Cholesterol
• Smoking
• Personal or family history of stroke or heart disease
• Diabetes
• Obesity/poor diet (diets high in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium)
• Physical inactivity
• Age (After age 55, your stroke risk doubles with every decade)
• Gender (Stroke is more common in men than women)
• Race (African Americans are twice as likely to die from stroke than Caucasians)

How can I prevent a stroke?

You can prevent a stroke by controlling as many risk factors as possible. Protect yourself with the following measures:

• Watch your cholesterol and blood pressure, and modify them if necessary
• Manage such medical conditions as diabetes and heart disease
• Don’t smoke
• Practice good nutrition by choosing healthier foods, such as fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products
• Exercise regularly, with permission and guidance from your physician

For more information about Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Stroke Center, call 732.324.4970.

To schedule a stroke awareness presentation or health screening for your community organization, call 732.324.5315. For referral to a physician, call 1-800 DOCTORS or 800.362.8677.

Exceptional Standards of Care

Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health. The medical center is a designated teaching institution for therapists and maintains affiliations with several major universities and colleges.

Appointments and Tours

Outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation services are conveniently available days, evenings and weekends. For more information about various services or to schedule a facility tour, please call:

Perth Amboy: 732.324.5042
Old Bridge: 732.360.4013
Woodbridge(physical therapy only): 732.362.3860
Matawan (physical therapy only): 732.812.4900

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy provides evaluation and treatment for individuals with physical limitations, disabilities and pain. Some of the more common conditions for which physical therapists examine and provide intervention and treatment include:

• Orthopedic Conditions (low back pain, neck pain, headaches, osteoporosis)
• Joint and soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains, hand injuries, fractures, dislocations, pre and post surgical conditions)
• Neurologic conditions (stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s Disease, Cerebral Palsy, peripheral nerve injury and Multiple Sclerosis)
• Integumentary Conditions (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)
• Systemic Diseases (Cancer, AIDS/HIV infection)
• Workplace Injuries (carpal tunnel, cumulative trauma, stress disorders)
• Sports Injuries (overuse injuries and trauma in recreational and professional sports
• Cardiopulmonary and circulatory conditions (congestive heart failure, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lymphedema, peripheral vascular disease (PVD))
• Patients who have developed physical impairment as the result of breast cancer

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is designed to help individuals develop or regain skills necessary to perform everyday activities so they can lead productive, fulfilling lives. Some of the health conditions that benefit form occupational therapy include:

• Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis and other serious chronic conditions
• Burns, spinal cord injuries, amputation
• Broken bones or other injuries from falls, sports injuries or accidents
• Cognitive problems associated with developmental delays or disabilities, brain tumors or stroke
• Mental health or behavioral problems (Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and post traumatic stress)
• Physical limitations following stroke, heart attack, traumatic brain injuries
• Problems that stem from substance abuse or eating disorders
• Work related injuries (low back problems, repetitive stress injuries)

Speech and Language Pathology

Raritan Bay Medical Center provides assessment and therapy for individuals with communication and language disorders, as well as those with swallowing disorders. Speech-language pathologists personalize treatment plans for developmentally delayed patients and those with neurological conditions or traumatic brain injuries, voice problems associated with head and neck/throat cancers, speech impediments and other communication difficulties. Interventions may include speech and language development, cognitive rehabilitation, voice therapy and vital stimulation for swallowing disorders.

Electrodiagnostic Procedures

Electrodiagnostic procedures are used to determine the underlying cause of nerve or muscle weakness, spasms, paralysis or pain. The Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation offers electrodiagnostic tests including:

• Electromyography (EMG), which measures the electrical activity in muscles; and
• Nerve Conduction Studies, which evaluate nerve function

These tests are administered by board certified physiatrists.

Pelvic Rehabilitation

Pelvic rehabilitation is available to treat individuals with pelvic pain, bladder or bowel incontinence, or other forms of pelvic muscle dysfunction.

On the forefront of new technology, Raritan Bay Medical Center evaluates patients through video urodynamics, a painless procedure that utilizes imaging equipment to accurately diagnose disorders of the urinary tract system. Pictures and video provide physicians with detailed information about the bladder so they can identify abnormalities and recommend the best possible treatment.

Sometimes Getting Back on Your Feet Requires a Little Help.

Whether you’re recuperating from a fall, stroke or sports-related injury, your goal is a speedy and optimal recovery. You can rest assured that when you’re under the care of Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Department, it’s our goal, too.

Raritan Bay Medical Center offers an expansive array of physical medicine and rehabilitation services aimed at promoting independence and improving quality of life. Our compassionate team of board certified physicians, physiatrists and licensed therapists bring up to 30 years clinical experience to provide care to adults and children diagnosed with various disabilities as well as injuries or disease associated with the neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular or pulmonary systems.

Count on Raritan Bay Medical center to provide you and your family with first-class inpatient and outpatient services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language pathology, electrodiagnostic procedures and pelvic rehabilitation.

Exceptional Standards of Care

Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Diagnostic Radiology department meets the highest standards of care, including accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and licensure by the New Jersey Department of Health. The medical center’s Mammography Unit is also accredited by the American College of Radiology and the Food & Drug Administration.

Convenient Hours

Outpatient radiology services are conveniently available for day, evening and weekend appointments. For more information or to schedule an appointment at Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Perth Amboy or Old Bridge location, please call 732.324.5270.

Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Diagnostic Radiology department offers a full complement of outpatient services aimed at detecting, staging and sometimes treating a broad range of diseases. These include:

Computed Tomography/ Positron Emission Tomography (CT/PET) Scanning, Old Bridge – Combining the capabilities of two scanning devices, this cutting edge equipment is used to identify cancer as well as early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. The technology measures the metabolic activity of cancer cells while pinpointing their location in the body, offering a complete and precise diagnosis.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning – Multi-detector scanning provides vivid, three dimensional imaging for diagnosing numerous medical conditions. The technology is especially helpful for angiography, or vascular studies, allowing many patients to avoid more invasive diagnostic procedures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – This premier diagnostic tool provides detailed, high-resolution images of the head, chest, extremities and other areas.

Mammography/Stereotactic Core Needle Biopsy – Combined with Raritan Bay Medical Center’s “double read” protocol, whereby two radiologists independently review test results.  These technologies ensure thorough, accurate diagnoses of breast cancer and breast abnormalities.

DEXA Scanner, Old Bridge – Bone densitometry measures bone mass to assist in the detection of osteoporosis.

X-rays – Digital, low-radiation X-ray equipment provides routine imaging of the head, neck, chest, spine, pelvis, extremities and abdomen.

Ultrasound – Advanced ultrasound utilizes sound waves to create visualizations of the chest, breast, abdomen, pelvis and blood vessels.

Angiography, Perth Amboy – This interventional modality reveals blockages and malformations of the vascular system.

Vertabroplasty – Representing a breakthrough treatment for osteoporosis, this minimally invasive procedure alleviates pain from compression spinal fractures.

Healing Starts Here

The first step on the road to recovery is knowing where to begin.  That’s why Raritan Bay Medical Center’s department of Diagnostic radiology ensures patients have access to the latest advances for diagnosing illness and injury, so they have the best possible starts in their treatment programs.

Our state-of-the-art outpatient facilities, located on both Perth Amboy and Old Bridge locations, are equipped with the most sophisticated tools and imaging technologies, as well as a growing array of therapeutic and interventional modalities to facilitate the healing process.

The department also features a picture archival and communications system (PACS) that allows physicians to review test results the moment they’re available form virtually any location with computer access.  No waiting form films.  No waiting to get to the hospital.  This digital system promotes quicker diagnoses, quicker treatment and more promising outcomes – which is the goal behind everything we do.

Furthermore, Raritan May Medical Center’s breakthrough technologies are matched by an equally impressive team of experience, board-certified radiologist and licensed technologists.  Our team performs more than 135,000 studies each year, putting on the right paths to better health.

Just for You

RBMC’s Center for Women is dedicated to the special needs of women, offering a comprehensive approach to breast health, wellness and disease prevention.  With locations in Old Bridge and Perth Amboy, our newly renovated facilities combine the highest quality imaging technology with comfortable, spa-like surroundings and a uniquely personalized level of care. 

We make it easy and convenient for women to receive state-of-the-art testing, including mammography, ultrasound, breast MRI, image-guided biopsy and bone densitometry, along with   various other women’s health services, from holistic medicine to lymphedema therapy.

At RBMC’s Center for Women, you’ll find a compassionate group of professionals devoted to your well-being. Because we understand the value of a little more help… and a little less to worry about.

Schedule an Appointment

RBMC’s Center for Women has two outpatient locations including our longstanding Old Bridge office and a newly opened Women’s Imaging suite in Perth Amboy. Both offer a host of amenities for optimal privacy, comfort and convenience, including free parking and easy access to all hospital services.

Old Bridge:  3 Hospital Plaza, Suite 302 (Medical Arts Building)
Perth Amboy:  530 New Brunswick Avenue, 1st Floor Blue Wing (enter from Lawrie Street)

To schedule an appointment, please call 732.324.5270.

Women’s Imaging and Diagnostics

RBMC is lauded as a Pink Ribbon FacilityTM in recognition of superior imaging for early breast cancer detection and the advancement of women’s health. Our nationally recognized Center for Women offers a wide array of diagnostic services, including the latest technology and techniques: 

• Digital Mammography – Double Read Method – Every screening mammogram is carefully reviewed for abnormalities by two radiologists and checked again with a sophisticated, computer-aided detection system (CAD) for a third evaluation.  These three checks insure that you are getting the best care possible…three different checks, for three times the peace of mind.

Identifying abnormalities in breast tissue is very difficult.  Large research studies have shown that having two doctors perform a separate evaluation of each mammogram and then comparing their opinions significantly increases the likelihood of identifying cancer.  If the opinions of the two radiologists are different, a third physician will be consulted until a determination is reached.

• Image-guided Breast Biopsy –
    Options include:
  • Stereotactic core needle biopsy
  • MRI-guided biopsy
  • Ultrasound-guided biopsy
• Ultrasound
• Breast MRI
• Bone Densitometry

Treatment & Rehabilitation

The Center for Women works in partnership with several RBMC departments to provide a continuum of women’s health services, including the following:

Treatment for Urinary Incontinence – Professionals from the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation offer the newest treatments for incontinence, pelvic pain and other conditions to help women reclaim a full, active lifestyle.

Lymphedema Therapy – Certified physical therapists assist in the prevention and management of lymphedema, a medical complication associated with breast cancer treatment.

Holistic Medicine – Women can achieve optimal healing and wellness through a variety of holistic therapies offered in conjunction with RBMC’s Division of Integrative Medicine.  Acupuncture, massage, Reiki and Tai Chi are just a few of the services available.

Focus on Wellness

The Center for Women promotes healthy living through one-on-one counseling and a Resource Library filled with literature, videos, computer workstations and other tools to empower and educate women; from stress management, to nutrition, to illness prevention.  Each of our facilities offers this complimentary service to patients and the community.

Our Team Approach

Our experienced team of board certified physicians, registered nurses, licensed therapists and other women’s health specialists work with your doctor to develop a customized plan of care.  We even have a dedicated Nurse Navigator who will guide you through each step of the process, whether you’re here for a screening mammogram, a series of tests, or treatment for a chronic condition. 

The Same Day Surgery Centers at Raritan Bay Medical Center are technologically advanced settings that are convenient for physicians while providing a safe, comfortable environment for you and your family. The centers provide the convenience of one location for all of your care plus the confidence in knowing that other hospital resources are available should you need additional care.

Facilities

The Same Day Surgery Centers are strategically located adjacent to the hospital’s operating suites; therefore patients never have to travel far for care.
Facilities include:

• Multiple surgery suites
• Multiple Endoscopy/Bronchoscopy suites
• Minor procedure rooms
• Immediate recovery and post-recovery areas
• Pre-op holding areas
• Free parking directly in front of the main entrance
• Spacious waiting rooms

Services

As a safe, convenient, and cost-effective alternative to inpatient surgery, both our Perth Amboy and Old Bridge locations have ambulatory facilities where admission, education, procedure, recovery and discharge are located in a single area. Both outpatient and inpatient surgical services offer the latest technology and anesthetic techniques, combined with warm, personalized care in an attractive, comfortable environment designed to put patients and families at ease. The following procedures and services are offered within the Same Day Surgery Centers:

• Anesthesia Services
• Advanced Arthroscopic Surgery
• State-of-the-Art Breast Surgery including Neoprobe Sentinel Lymph Node Probe
• Bronchoscopy
• Dental, Oral MaxilloFacial Surgery
• Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery
• Endoscopy
• ESWL: Kidney Stone Treatment
• Eye Surgery
• General Surgery
• Gynecological Surgery
• Laser Surgery
• Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pain Management
• Plastic Cosmetic and Reconstructive
• Surgery
• Podiatric Surgery
• State-of-the-Art Endoscopy Suites
• Urological Surgery
• Urodynamic Studies
• Vascular Surgery

The reception/family waiting areas are adjacent to the patient care areas so families may speak directly to physicians following procedures. They are attended by a volunteer who can check on a patient’s status. Families wait in comfort as complimentary hot refreshments, snacks, television and wireless internet services are provided. Courtesy pagers (beepers) are available if a family member has to leave the area for a short period of time. Perth Amboy features a Patient Status Tracking System that provides patient care updates in real time, all while protecting patient confidentiality and privacy.

Staff

The centers are staffed by a team of highly qualified and experienced nurses who cater to the unique needs of same day surgery patients. These nurses, and all same day surgery staff, are extremely customer focused. Their goal is to make each patient’s brief stay at Raritan Bay Medical Center as comfortable as possible in order to ensure they return home with a relaxed, positive attitude conducive to healing. Our nursing professionals are board certified in perioperative, endosocopic and perianesthesia nursing care. Our nurse recovery team members are certified in critical care nursing, as well as advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). Our anesthesiologists deliver local, regional, and general anesthesia and specialize in pain management. If you have any anesthesia concerns, you will have the opportunity to discuss them with an anesthesiologist before your procedure.

Pre-Admission Testing (PAT)

Patients for Endoscopy, Bronchoscopy or Pain Management procedures do not require pre-admission testing. Surgery patients need a pre-admission testing
(PAT) visit.

• PAT will schedule an appointment with you, at your convenience, up to 30 days prior to surgery.
• Patients will receive special instructions and medical history forms. Please bring completed forms with you to your appointment
• Please plan for up to one hour for the interview and tests
• During the appointment, a registered nurse reviews your personal surgery instructions including surgery arrival time and when to stop eating or drinking, and completes a nursing assessment. An anesthesiologist discusses your anesthesia care. Any diagnostic tests (for example, blood work, EKG, or x-rays) that your doctor may have ordered are all done in this one convenient location.

Exceptional Standards of Care

Raritan Bay Medical Center is a nationally designated Magnet hospital for nursing excellence. The Same Day Surgery Centers are proud to maintain compliance with professional licensing standards and are accredited by the Joint Commission. They adhere to the practice standards of the Association of Perioperative Nurses, Society of Gastrointestinal Nurses and Association of Perianesthesia Nurses.

For more information about the hospital’s Same Day Surgery Centers or the wide range of available same day surgical procedures, please call 732.324.5359 for Perth Amboy or 732.360.4141 for Old Bridge.

Parking

Parking is free at both locations. If you park in the parking deck at Perth Amboy, please remember to bring your parking stub with you and your ticket will be validated.

Old Bridge Medical Arts Building
3 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge NJ

Perth Amboy
530 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy, NJ

Our Testing Makes the Grade

Medicine has come a long way in recent years, though even the latest breakthroughs don’t change one underlying fact: successful treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. That makes Raritan Bay Medical Center’s (RBMC) Laboratory Services a vitally important stop along our hospital’s continuum of care. In fact, while it often works behind the scenes, the laboratory plays a critical role by performing more than 800,000 diagnostic tests each year.

RBMC’s laboratory offers a broad scope of inpatient and outpatient services, maintaining two state-of-the-art facilities located in Perth Amboy and Old Bridge.  Whether conducting a routine blood screening or highly complex procedure, our staff is dedicated to consistently making the grade, which means following the most stringent clinical standards, ensuring absolute precision, and delivering results as quickly as possible.

When you choose RBMC for your laboratory services, rest assured that each specimen is handled with superior care, and each client is treated with professional, personalized service.  Because we recognize that every diagnostic test impacts a medical decision.  And behind every result is someone counting on our expertise – and an accuracy rate that never falls short of 100 percent.

Marks of Excellence

RBMC’s laboratory is nationally recognized for its commitment to excellence.  Both facilities are voluntarily accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP), the world’s largest and most prestigious association of pathologists and the leading organization for laboratory quality assurance.  This elite distinction is only awarded after a rigorous evaluation, including on-site inspections and a thorough review of equipment, safety procedures, staff qualifications and other measures of performance.  RBMC has held full CAP accreditation for more than 30 years, one of the longest accreditation records in New Jersey.  Furthermore, the laboratory is also accredited by the Joint Commission (TJC) and the American Association of Blood Blanks, licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, and certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Our exceptional facilities are operated by an equally impressive staff, comprised of experienced medical technologists, phlebotomists and board certified pathologists who are trained in such areas as cytology, phlebotomy, surgical pathology and other subspecialties.

Laboratory Services

Our laboratory is equipped to provide a wide range of services for patients and physicians, including:

• Blood Chemistry
• Immunology
• Hematology
• Microbiology
• Coagulation
• Pre-Natal Blood Testing
• Hormonal Testing
• Cardiac Profiles
• Blood Bank

Additionally, our staff works in cooperation with the hospital’s Community Health department and local organizations to offer various health screenings throughout the year as well as blood drives in partnership with The Blood Center of New Jersey.

Rapid Results

We know that waiting is difficult, so we keep it to a minimum. RBMC’s laboratory has the capability to perform most testing on premises, allowing us to deliver most results within 24 hours – or within 30 minutes when circumstances demand.  Some tests are more comprehensive and may require a longer turnaround.

Results are immediately available to the ordering physician via secured computer access; reports are forwarded via fax or mail, depending on the doctor’s preference.

Outpatient Locations

For your convenience, RBMC’s Laboratory operates a full service facility at each of our hospital locations:

Old Bridge:
One Hospital Plaza
Old Bridge, New Jersey
(732) 360-4008
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Weekends & Holidays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Perth Amboy:
530 New Brunswick Avenue
Perth Amboy, New Jersey
(732) 324-5829
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays & Holidays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A prescription signed by your doctor is required for all laboratory services.  Appointments are usually unnecessary, though exceptions apply for certain tests, such as those that require an overnight fast.

RBMC accepts most major insurance plans.  We recommend that you contact your insurance carrier to verify coverage for your particular testing needs.

More Information

If you have any questions about RBMC’s laboratory services, or would like to schedule a testing appointment at one of our facilities, please call; Old Bridge at 732.360.4008 or Perth Amboy at 732.324.5829.

Click here for information on donating blood.

Renovated and Expanded Emergency Department Opens at Perth Amboy

As a vitally important, bustling and life-saving component of the medical center, Raritan Bay Medical Center (RBMC) has made enhancing its emergency services a priority. To that end RBMC completed a $1 million renovation project to expand and refurbish its Perth Amboy emergency department in 2010, as part of the medical center’s ongoing growth and renewal program Vision 2011.

The medical center celebrated the 3,530 sq/ft. expansion’s opening December 2010, which includes 10 additional patient beds and private patient rooms, new state-of-the-art digital patient monitoring and “see-thru CPR” defibrillator equipment, an expanded Fast Track area (providing speedy care for less serious emergencies) and more physical space enhancing the comfort level for patients and their loved ones.

“I’m extremely proud of the work that went into enhancing our emergency services at Perth Amboy. The additional beds, amenities and cutting-edge equipment will enable our expert physicians and Magnet nurses to triage and care for our patients more efficiently and will streamline treatment processes to speed up care,” said Michael R. D’Agnes, president and CEO of Raritan Bay Medical Center. “Ultimately, our goal is to be the medical destination of choice for the community we serve.”

The new defibrillators may be used in conjunction with RBMC’s Thermosuits, inflatable cocoon-like non-invasive devices that reduce body temperature rapidly, allowing for an extremely effective resuscitation bundle, enhancing RBMC clinicians’ ability to save lives.

The expansion also includes a new emergency department-dedicated elevator allowing easy and rapid transfer of patients, to be admitted, to patient floors and to the medical center’s cardiac catheterization laboratories and stroke unit. The new bedside monitoring equipment standardizes patient data with all departments and, in the near future, will allow caregivers to acquire 12-lead EKG heart data and electronically share with the cardiology department, through the medical center’s computer-based Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), giving cardiologists the data more quickly.

In the coming months the Old Bridge emergency department’s Fast Track area will be expanded to match the already large waiting room and patient care accommodations.

On the Front Lines of Health Care

On average, every resident in our community will call for emergency assistance at least twice during his or her lifetime — whether a loved one is experiencing a heart attack, seriously ill, or facing traumatic injury. And in most of those cases, Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will be there, administering immediate medical care to those without time or ability to get to the hospital. So we bring the hospital to them.

Raritan Bay Medical Center’s EMS has been serving Central New Jersey for more than 20 years, providing mobile intensive care, special transportation, training and other vital programs to area residents and health care professionals.

Directed by a board-certified emergency medical physician, our team is focused on one thing — saving lives. From responding to emergencies to preventing them in the first place, our highly skilled professionals work in cooperation with local ambulance squads, police and fire departments and other health care agencies to care for area families, keeping them as safe and healthy as possible.

EMS operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day — equipped and prepared to handle any type of medical emergency. Our staff is truly on the front lines of health care, bridging the gap from the community to the Emergency Room, and extending help when and where it’s needed most.

Mobile Intensive Care Unit

Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Mobile Intensive Care Unit responds to approximately 5,000 calls each year in Woodbridge, Perth Amboy, South Amboy, Old Bridge, Sayreville and surrounding communities. Our fleet of five state-of-the-art vehicles is staffed by certified paramedics trained in advanced life support, able to administer life-saving interventions such as electrical defibrillation, intravenous therapy and other procedures at the scene of an emergency. When necessary, paramedics use radios and telephones to work in tandem with physicians to expedite hospital treatment, including cardiac catheterization, angioplasty and surgery.

Specialty Care and Basic Life Support Transportation

The hospital’s Specialty Care Transport and Basic Life Support Transport offers inter-facility ambulance transportation for critically ill or injured patients as well as individuals who may require assistance traveling to a nursing home, assisted-living facility or another hospital.

Patients in critical condition are accompanied by a critical care nurse and paramedic, while others are escorted by two emergency medical technicians. This hospital-based service can also coordinate transportation needs for those who are unable to walk or drive to their doctor appointments, dialysis treatments, chemotherapy or other essential medical services. In most cases, transportation costs are covered by insurance. For more information about this service or to arrange for transportation, call 732. 324-5204.

Training & Education

Raritan Bay Medical Center provides Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) classes for the community and health care professionals. These courses are taught under the standards of the American Heart Association. Additionally, the hospital offers comprehensive training for emergency medical technicians and paramedics. Please call 732.324.5393 for information about upcoming classes.

Outreach

As part of our mission, Raritan Bay Medical Center’s EMS actively participates in community health and wellness activities as well as emergency preparedness initiatives. Our vehicles and staff maintain a visible presence at local events, health fairs, schools and other youth organizations — speaking to aspiring health professionals, administering first aid, and spreading important health and safety information.

EMS also serves on local emergency response teams, helping local counties and municipalities plan for various types of disasters or incidents requiring a coordinated emergency effort.

Standards of Excellence

Raritan Bay Medical Center is a major clinical affiliate of UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, a member of the Robert Wood Johnson Health Network, an affiliate of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey and a recipient of the National Magnet Award for Nursing Excellence. All paramedics are certified by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.

In Case of Emergency
If you think you or someone you’re with is experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.

• Calmly tell the dispatcher about what has happened. Explain the type of emergency, give your name and the phone number of the telephone you are using, and give the address of the emergency.
• Answer questions, and listen to the instructions provided.
• Don’t hang up until the dispatcher tells you to, and don’t leave the scene until help arrives.

At Raritan Bay Medical Center, a child is a precious patient. That’s why our Pediatric Unit is a special place providing care, reassurance, support, comfort and encouragement to infants, children and adolescents and their families.

Our services include:

• Acute care
• Outpatient testing
• Medical Day Stay

The Pediatric Unit strives to meet the needs of the family by providing:

• 24-hour visitation for parents and flexible hours for other family members
• Continental Breakfast
• Sleeper chairs for parent overnight stay
• A play room with toys, games, books, video games, and DVDs appropriate for all ages
• A closed circuit DVD library system offering new releases and old favorites

Qualified Staff

Every nurse in our Pediatric Unit is a registered professional with experience and specialized education in the care of newborn, child and adolescent patients. Our nurses can offer you a wealth of advice and assistance during your child’s hospitalization.

For children under 18 years of age who need specialized care, Raritan Bay Medical Center has two board-certified pediatric cardiologists on staff. In addition, new parents may need the special expertise provided by our neonatologists, who are board-certified specialists in the care of high-risk infants.

Raritan Bay Medical Center provides round-the-clock services of a hospital based Pediatrician to respond to emergencies and to confer with your Pediatrician if necessary.

For more information on our Pediatric Services, call 732.324.5073.

Early Intervention Program: Comprehensive medical care program including medical care, case management and clinical care coordination.

Counseling & Testing: Free, confidential HIV testing program 732.324.5346 or 6082.

Prevention Projects: Services provided include:

• Outreach to Community
• Health Education & Risk-Reduction classes
• Single session Health Education programs
• Prevention Case Management

All staff is bilingual and services can be provided in English and Spanish.  For more information call 732.324.5082/6064.

Prevention with Positives: Intense prevention case management & risk-reduction program for individuals who are HIV+

AIDS Education/Training Unit: As part of the NY/NJ AIDS Education Project, RBMC offers professional education and clinical support to medical professionals caring for individuals with HIV/AIDS.  For more information call 732.324.5369.

Early Intervention Program

Individuals with HIV can receive comprehensive medical care and treatment, including specialized health education and case management services, through the medical center’s Early Intervention Program. Comprehensive HIV services include the AIDS Outreach & Support Program and free and confidential HIV counseling and testing.  For more information call 732.324.5022.