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P.O. Box 7129
Boise, ID 83707
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Fax: 208.334.8563
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Recognizing
onset of stroke
can increase chances of survival
A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within three hours the effects of a stroke usually can be totally reversed. The key is early recognition of an impending stroke and seeking medical attention within the three-hour window.
Recognizing a stroke
Susie is recouping at an incredible pace for someone who had a massive
stroke, all because Sherry saw Susie stumble and then she asked Susie
the three questions.
Someone had sent the questions to Sherry that she asked Susie.
Susie failed all three questions so 9-1-1 was called. Even though Susie had normal blood pressure readings and it did not appear to be a stroke as she could converse to some extent with the paramedics they took her directly to the hospital.
Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:
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Ask the individual to smile.
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Ask the individual to raise both arms.
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Ask the person to speak a simple sentence coherently. For example: “It is sunny out today.”
If the individual has trouble with any of these tasks, call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions.
Note: The above information has been circulating via e-mail. Cheryl D. Rost, ITD’s Safety & Risk Manager, received several questions about the validity of the information and subsequently contacted a physician for a response. It has been verified as an appropriate way to preliminarily determine the onset of a stroke.
Published 11-4-05