First aid for a stroke involves recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly to get medical help. Here are the steps to follow:
- Recognize the Signs:
- Be aware of the common signs of a stroke, which can be remembered using the acronym FAST:
- Face: Ask the person to smile and check if one side of their face droops.
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one arm drifts downward.
- Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence and observe if their speech is slurred or difficult to understand.
- Time: If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call emergency services immediately.
- Be aware of the common signs of a stroke, which can be remembered using the acronym FAST:
- Call Emergency Services:
- Dial the emergency number in your country (such as 911) to request an ambulance.
- Provide clear and accurate information about the situation, including the possibility of a stroke.
- Stay with the Person:
- Stay with the person experiencing the stroke and offer reassurance.
- Keep them calm and encourage them to stay still.
- Do Not Give Anything to Eat or Drink:
- It’s important not to give the person anything to eat or drink, including medications, as it may interfere with medical treatments.
- Monitor Vital Signs:
- Check the person’s breathing, pulse, and consciousness level.
- If necessary, perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if the person becomes unresponsive or stops breathing.
- Note the Time:
- If possible, note the time when the symptoms first started. This information is crucial for medical professionals in determining treatment options.
- Provide Information to Medical Professionals:
- When paramedics arrive, provide them with relevant information about the person’s symptoms, including when they started and any other observations.
Remember, the most critical step in responding to a stroke is to seek immediate medical attention. Time is of the essence, as prompt treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery and minimize potential complications.
Dr Raos hospital is the best comprehensive stroke center led by Dr Rao the best dural trained cerebrovascular neurosurgeon.