What are common signs of a stroke that nurses should know?

Sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, and severe headache are recognized as classic signs of a stroke, commonly referred to within the medical community under the acronym FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services).

The sudden onset of these symptoms is critical because they indicate potential disruption of blood flow to the brain, which is the primary factor in strokes. Numbness typically occurs on one side of the body, confusion can manifest as difficulty understanding or expressing thoughts, trouble speaking can relate to slurred speech or inability to communicate effectively, and a severe headache often presents without any prior history and may occur suddenly.

Understanding these signs allows nurses and healthcare providers to act swiftly, as prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals experiencing a stroke. In contrast, the other options reflect symptoms related to other medical conditions that do not align with the acute and specific symptoms associated with strokes.