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Online First Aid | Strokes

Stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood stops flowing to part of the brain. It can happen when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or begins to leak.

It is important to recognize the signs of a stroke and provide immediate medical treatment. Treatment provided in the first hours after a stroke occurs can help to minimize damage and aid in recovery.

Warning Signs of a Stroke:

You can use the FAST method to remember the warning signs of a stroke. FAST stands for Face, Arms, Speech, and Time.

  • ● Face Drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb?
  • ● Arm weakness: Is one arm numb or weak?
  • ● Speech difficulty: Is the person having trouble speaking or slurring words?
  • ● Time to call 9-1-1: If someone shows any of these symptoms, you should call 9-1-1 immediately!
How to recognize and provide aid to someone suffering a stroke

Helping a Stroke Victim

If you think someone is having a stroke, follow these steps:

  • ● Activate EMS: Call, or have someone else call 9-1-1
  • ● Get a first aid kit and AED
  • ● Note the time when the stroke signs first appeared
  • ● Remain with the stroke victim until someone with more advanced training arrives and can take over
  • ● If the person becomes unresponsive or stops breathing normally, or is only able to gasp, give CPR
Activate EMS to give a stroke victim emergency medical assistance
Class: Adult/Pediatric First-Aid
Instructor: Mike Figuero
Publish Date: 2022-04-02
Last Updated: 2022-07-18
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