Act FAST: Stroke Identification for Advanced First Aiders

/ Delta Emergency Support Training/

Understanding Strokes

Strokes, also know as Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, either due to a blocked blood vessel or a bleeding blood vessel. This interruption can cause brain cells to die, leading to a range of symptoms and complications. Strokes can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and heart disease, among others.

Elderly man experiencing head pain

an older man holding his head in his hand, as if he is experiencing discomfort or pain.

There are two main types of strokes: ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain, while hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding tissue. Symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on the location and severity of the damage, but can include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, severe headache, and dizziness or loss of balance.

Risk Factors for Strokes

There are several factors that can increase the risk of strokes, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and a family history of strokes. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can also increase the risk of strokes. To reduce the risk of strokes, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage any underlying medical conditions.

Responding To a Suspected Stroke

Recognizing the signs of a stroke and responding quickly is essential in improving the chances of a positive outcome for stroke patients. Taking a full set of vitals including BGL to rule out possible stroke mimics.

Some of the most common symptoms of a stroke include:

  • Severe headache

  • Altered LOC

  • Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body

  • Vision problems in one or both eyes

  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination

It's important to note that these symptoms can occur suddenly and without warning, and that not all symptoms may be present in every stroke. Additionally, some strokes may cause more subtle symptoms that are not immediately noticeable, such as weakness or numbness that comes and goes, or changes in mood or behavior.

FAST

As an AFA, you should be familiar with the acronym FAST to help you remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke and respond quickly. Here's what it stands for:

  • F: Face drooping or numbness

  • A: Arm weakness or numbness

  • S: Speech difficulty or confusion

  • T: Time symptoms started

    By asking the following questions you can quickly assess if the patient is FAST positive, which is indicative of a stroke.

  • F: Smile big for me, I want to see all your teeth.

  • A: Lift patients arms in the air and ask them to hold them up for 5 seconds.

  • S: Repeat after me, the early bird gets the worm.

  • T: Ask the patient when the symptoms started.

    Treatment

    As an advanced first aider, it's important to recognize the limitations of our scope of practice when it comes to treating strokes in the prehospital world. While we can provide basic care such as administering oxygen and preparing the patient for rapid transport to a medical facility, there are few treatments that we can provide beyond that. It's crucial to act quickly and call for emergency medical assistance when someone is experiencing a stroke, as prompt medical treatment at a hospital facility is key to improving the chances of a positive outcome. As an advanced first aider, it's our role to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke and act quickly.

    Advanced First Aid Training

    At Delta Emergency Support Training, we understand the importance of being prepared for emergency situations, including strokes. That's why we offer a range of training sessions, including Advanced First Aid (AFA), to help individuals and classes develop the skills and knowledge they need to respond effectively. Our AFA training includes instruction on recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke, as well as providing basic care until professional medical assistance arrives. Our courses are available in-person and hybrid formats to accommodate different schedules and learning styles.

    If you have any questions about our AFA training, including stroke-related topics, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at info@deltaemergency.com and our knowledgeable instructors will be happy to assist you. We're committed to helping you develop the skills and confidence you need to respond effectively in emergency situations.