Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

6 Medical Emergencies

Since the obstruction is a temporary event, it is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Even though a TIA leaves no lasting brain damage, there is no way for the first aider to know if it is indeed a TIA or if it is a stroke. Therefore, first aid is the same for both. Depending where the stroke occurs in the brain, different symptoms may be present. Stroke patients may be unresponsive or seem to have an altered LOC or mental state.

Frequently, the stroke affects only one side of the body. Patients may have trouble communicating and are slurring or using inappropriate words, or they may not be able to speak at all. Since a stroke may leave parts of the body paralyzed, the patient may not be able to protect their own airway. Give nothing by mouth. A damp cloth can be used to moisten the lips if the patient is thirsty. If you suspect a patient has had a stroke, you can perform a simple test as part of your secondary assessment. Stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. The goal is for a person to receive definitive treatment as soon as possible (ideally in under 3 hours fro onset of stroke symptoms) Called the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale, it tests the patient for speech, facial movement and arm movement (see table on the next page)

Anyone showing signs and symptoms or who is suspected of having a stroke or a TIA, even if it has resolved, must have immediate medical attention.

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