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Stroke Victim Discovery: These Immediate Steps Could Boost Survival Chances

"Stroke is an increasingly common health concern. It is imperative to be aware of the immediate steps one should take upon witnessing a stroke. Join us as we unravel the critical first-aid procedures that can potentially save a life."

Administrator

5 August, 2024

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Knowledge is power when it comes to stroke first aid. Learn these critical steps to provide potentially life-saving assistance when encountering someone experiencing a stroke.

According to Dr. Nguyen Van Thai, a neurologist at Cho Ray Hospital, here are the signs and first aid steps for stroke:

1Stroke Signs

BE FAST, an acronym used by the American Heart Association (AHA) and other organizations, helps identify stroke signs and symptoms for timely intervention.

It stands for:

B (BALANCE): Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, severe headache, and impaired motor coordination.

E (EYESIGHT): Reduced or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes.

F (FACE): Facial asymmetry, paralysis, or drooping on one side, noticeable when the person smiles widely.

A (ARM): Difficulty or inability to lift one or both arms, indicating paralysis or weakness. Ask the person to raise both arms simultaneously to test.

S (SPEECH): Slurred speech, difficulty articulating words, or unusual speech impediments. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence to assess.

T (TIME): Act fast by calling emergency services (115 in Vietnam) or taking the person to the nearest medical facility.

Other stroke signs include:

Sudden paralysis, often on one side of the body
Sudden loss of balance
Blurred or reduced vision
Sudden confusion or disorientation
Severe headache accompanied by vomiting

2First Aid Steps for Stroke

Step 1: Place the person on a firm, flat surface to maintain balance. Avoid soft surfaces like pillows or mattresses, which can affect head positioning and worsen bleeding. Do not move them unnecessarily.

Place the person on a flat surface

Step 2: Position them slightly on their side to facilitate easier breathing. If vomiting occurs, clear their mouth of any vomit to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the brain.

Side-lying position for stroke patients

Slight side tilt for easier breathing

Step 3: Monitor their level of consciousness by asking basic questions. If they seem disoriented or lose control of their bladder, they have impaired consciousness.

Step 4: Check their pulse and blood pressure if possible. Do not give them any medication, eye drops, or other substances.

Check pulse and blood pressure

Step 5: Call an ambulance (115) or emergency services to transport them to the nearest medical facility as soon as possible.

Call an ambulance immediately

3Additional Considerations for Stroke First Aid

Avoid moving the person unnecessarily to prevent worsening intracranial bleeding.

Do not apply oils or give any medications to avoid adverse drug reactions.

Refrain from acupressure or acupuncture as it may delay proper medical treatment and worsen their condition.

Important considerations for stroke first aid

We’ve shared critical first aid steps for stroke. Take note of these essential details to effectively assist someone experiencing a stroke.

Source: Tuoi Tre Newspaper

Frequently asked questions

Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial. Use the FAST method: Face, Arms, Speech, Time. Check if the person’s face is drooping, if they can raise both arms, and if their speech is slurred or strange. If you observe any of these signs, immediately call emergency services as time is of the essence.

First, stay calm and call for emergency medical help. While waiting for assistance, note the time when symptoms began, as this information is vital for treatment. If the person is conscious, reassure them and make them comfortable. If they have fallen, do not move them unnecessarily, but ensure they can breathe properly. Loosen tight clothing and monitor their vital signs.

Quick action is essential. Get the person to a hospital as soon as possible, ideally within an hour of symptom onset, as this is the critical time frame for treatment. The faster they receive medical attention, the better their chances of recovery and minimizing potential brain damage.

Yes. If the person is conscious, ask them to rest and refrain from moving or talking unnecessarily. If they are taking any medications, provide this information to the medical team. If they wear dentures, remove them to prevent choking. Most importantly, stay with the person and keep them calm until help arrives.

Recovery depends on the severity of the stroke and the individual’s overall health. Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to help regain independence. Long-term care may involve managing medications, making lifestyle changes, and attending regular medical appointments to monitor progress and prevent another stroke.