Free CSRS Stroke Pathophysiology & Patient Assessment Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the primary cause of ischemic stroke?

Accepted Answer

A blood clot blocking a brain artery

Answer

Ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke, occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery that supplies blood to the brain. This blockage deprives brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cell death. In contrast, hemorrhagic stroke involves bleeding in the brain, while infections or tumors are distinct neurological conditions.

Question 2

Which part of the brain is commonly affected by a middle cerebral artery stroke?

Accepted Answer

Frontal and parietal lobes

Answer

The middle cerebral artery (MCA) is the largest cerebral artery and supplies a significant portion of the brain's lateral surface. A stroke affecting the MCA commonly impacts the frontal and parietal lobes, as well as parts of the temporal lobe. Damage to these areas can lead to a wide range of neurological deficits, including motor and sensory impairments, language difficulties (aphasia), and neglect.

Question 3

What is a key early sign of stroke during patient assessment?

Accepted Answer

Sudden weakness on one side of the body

Answer

Stroke is characterized by a sudden disruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to abrupt neurological deficits. Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body (hemiparesis or hemiplegia) is a classic and highly indicative early sign, often accompanied by facial drooping or speech difficulties. Recognizing this acute onset is crucial for prompt medical intervention and improved outcomes.

Question 4

Which assessment tool is commonly used to evaluate stroke severity?

Accepted Answer

NIH Stroke Scale

Answer

The NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a standardized, systematic assessment tool used by healthcare professionals to quantify the severity of neurological deficits caused by a stroke. It evaluates various functions like consciousness, language, motor strength, and sensation, providing a reliable score that guides treatment decisions and monitors changes in a patient's condition over time. Its specific design makes it ideal for acute stroke assessment.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of a CT scan in acute stroke assessment?

Accepted Answer

Detect ischemic versus hemorrhagic stroke

Answer

In acute stroke assessment, a CT scan is the primary imaging modality used to quickly differentiate between an ischemic stroke (caused by a clot) and a hemorrhagic stroke (caused by bleeding). This distinction is critical because the treatments are vastly different and often contraindicated for the other type. For example, clot-busting drugs for ischemic stroke are dangerous in hemorrhagic stroke.

CSRS - Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist Practice Test

CSRS - Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist Practice Test

Free CSRS Stroke Pathophysiology & Patient Assessment Questions and Answers