Learn. Prevent. Empower.
Stroke
Learning Outcomes:
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To understand what stroke is and their common causes
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To learn how to respond and treat casualties with stroke
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To know when to call for help and how to monitor the casualty safely
Lesson Content:
What is Stroke?
A stroke is a condition in which the blood supply to the brain is suddenly impaired by a blood clot or a ruptured blood vessel.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms
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Altered level of consciousness
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Slurred or garbled speech
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Loss of movement and sensation, usually on one side of the body
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Severe headache
Signs of Stroke with the acronym “FAST”:
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Facial weakness – Ask casualty to smile/show their teeth? Check with their family member is they see anything unsual about the face (facial droop)
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Arm weakness – Ask casualty to close their eyes and raise both arms. Check if one arm drift downwards (also known as pronator drift)
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Speech difficulty – Ask the casualty what happened and hear them speak. Check with family members if they hear anything unusual (slurred speech)
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Time to act fast – Call 995 for SCDF. Take note and ask family members about the last time casualty was seen well.
Actions to take
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Conduct Primary Survey and Secondary Survey. Find out as much as possible about the casualty to handover to the paramedic (from casualty/bystander).
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Some past medical history can increase the risk of stroke (high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, irregular heartbeats (atrial fibrillation)
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Monitor casualty’s vitals constantly. If the casualty falls unresponsive with no pulse and breathing, start CPR and AED immediately.
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Reassure casualty that professional help is coming.
