AN advanced patient monitoring device costing £25,000 has been installed at Bishop Auckland General Hospital's stroke unit.

The balance of the cost came from a Stroke Trust Fund set up by medical consultant Dr Ali Mehrzad and means the hospital is the only one in the North-East with the equipment.

The device looks similar to a laptop and is based at the nurses' station within the stroke department.

It is linked to individual monitors in the stroke and critical care unit and keeps track of patient heart rates, so nurses can constantly observe all patients in their care.

In the past, nurses had to monitor patients individually by visiting their bedside systems, but they can now keep track of up to four patients at the same time from the one area.

Dr Mehrzad said: "The money I make from research goes straight to the Stroke Trust Fund and I am delighted with the new device - it really is the icing on the cake for the department.

"It is vital that more attention is paid to the early stages of stroke treatment and this monitor keeps constant track of every patient's condition, it is the best form of practice to ensure our patients receive the highest level of care."

Ward manager Lindsey Burnside said: "We have had the monitor for a month now and it has proved very reassuring to all nursing staff who can now observe all patients from the one monitor.

"It is an excellent addition to the unit," she added.

To make a donation to The Stroke Fund, call 0191-455-171.