Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the US. An acute stroke is an emergency medical condition that presents with significant neurological changes due to an interruption of blood supply in the brain. If the caregiver was able to recognize the symptoms at the onset and assist the patient in getting medical help fast (calling 911), there is a possibility that the debilitating symptoms will not be permanent or the patient could recover faster. Advances in medical treatment could possibly reverse an embolic stroke. This course will review the usual signs of an acute stroke and the modifiable risk factors to prevent a stroke.
Learning Objectives Stroke simplified for CNAs
- Describe what happens when a patient has a stroke.
- Lists recommendations to prevent a stroke including managing co-morbidities.
- List the common symptoms of a patient having a stroke.
- Explain what FAST stands for.
- Explain why getting immediate medical attention is very important when someone is suspected of having a stroke.
- Understand different types of strokes.
- Verbalize treatment options for patients who had a stroke.
- Understand what Transient ischemic attacks (TIA) are and their relevance on the risk of having a major stroke.