Neurological Emergencies & Stroke Cares Flashcards

Which positioning is generally recommended for a conscious stroke patient with no signs of shock?

Answer: Head elevated about 30 degrees

Elevating the head about 30 degrees can help reduce intracranial pressure in stroke patients.

A patient suddenly reports the 'worst headache of my life.' This complaint is most concerning for:

Answer: Hemorrhagic stroke / subarachnoid hemorrhage

A sudden, severe 'thunderclap' headache is a classic warning sign of bleeding in the brain.

Why is it important to transport stroke patients to a designated stroke center?

Answer: They offer specialized clot-dissolving and neurological care quickly

Stroke centers can rapidly provide CT imaging and time-sensitive therapies like fibrinolytics.

When obtaining a history for a stroke patient, which detail is most critical to relay to the hospital?

Answer: The exact time the patient was last seen normal

Last-known-well time determines eligibility for clot-busting therapy.

A patient with a brain injury shows a rising blood pressure, slowing pulse, and irregular breathing. This trio is known as:

Answer: Cushing's triad

Cushing's triad indicates rising intracranial pressure and is an ominous sign.

An unequal pupil size (anisocoria) in a patient with altered mental status may indicate:

Answer: Increased intracranial pressure or brain injury

Unequal pupils can signal pressure on the brain or a structural neurological emergency.

Which oxygen approach is appropriate for a stroke patient with an SpO2 of 91%?

Answer: Apply supplemental oxygen to maintain SpO2 at or above 94%

Supplemental oxygen is given to keep saturation at least 94% in hypoxic stroke patients.