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The sudden onset of a stroke in a family member can be a distressing and challenging experience. In these critical moments, the actions taken by family members can significantly impact the outcome for the affected individual. The five essential steps to be taken immediately when witnessing a family member having a stroke are as follows:
Synopsis
1. Recognize Stroke Symptoms and Call for Help
The first and most crucial action when a family stroke is experiencing is the rapid recognition of stroke symptoms and an immediate call for emergency assistance. Familiarising oneself with the acronym FAST
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Facial drooping,
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Arm weakness,
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Speech difficulties,
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Time to call emergency services
Remembering these can aid in quickly identifying potential signs of a stroke. The golden hour intervention can alter outcomes significantly. Time is of the essence in stroke cases, and early intervention can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome. Manipal Hospitals Delhi has some of the best emergency services in Delhi, with prompt response vehicles equipped with medical support staff and machinery to help the patient during transit. Avoid giving them food, drink, or medication unless advised otherwise by emergency medical personnel.
2. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
In the midst of a medical emergency, family members must stay calm and assess the situation. This involves observing and noting the specific symptoms the family member is experiencing, such as the time of symptom onset and any additional information that could aid healthcare professionals in their assessment and treatment. Knowing the patient and their medical history can help doctors act fast and avoid unnecessary manoeuvres. While waiting for emergency services to arrive, create a safe environment for the individual by removing any potential hazards or obstacles in their immediate surroundings. This may involve clearing a path for paramedical personnel and ensuring that the individual is lying down comfortably.
3. Monitor Vital Signs and Perform Basic First Aid
While awaiting professional medical assistance, family members can play a role in monitoring the affected individual's vital signs and providing basic first aid. If the individual is conscious and able to swallow, offering small sips of water may be appropriate, but it's essential to avoid giving them any food, as this could pose a choking hazard. Comfort measures, such as placing a blanket over them if they are cold, can contribute to their overall well-being. Calling the best neurologist can help assist with basic first aid the patient may need.
4. Communicate Effectively with Emergency Services
Once emergency services have been contacted, clearly describe the situation, emphasizing the suspected stroke symptoms and any relevant medical history or pre-existing conditions the family member may have. Answer questions about the individual's age, medications taken, particularly the use of blood thinners, and known allergies.
5. Give informed consent for procedures and treatment without delay
Give informed consent for doctors to perform certain tests such as MRI and administer life-saving medications such as clot-busters without any delay. Your family members may have a much better chance of improving without residual disability if prompt action is taken when they arrive in the hospital. Doctors at Manipal Hospitals Delhi try their best to educate patients on their treatment options and share their valuable insights through blogs too, so patients and families can learn to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Conclusion
Strokes can cause serious damage to patients if timely care is not provided. Prompt action by family members can help assist medical professionals in taking prompt action. Knowing the patient's history and other conditions can help doctors avoid unnecessary delays in stroke symptoms and improve the recovery chances of the patient. Manipal Hospitals Delhi has some of the best cardiac surgeons, cardiologists and stroke specialists who can provide prompt and accurate treatment to the patient. Learning about signs of stroke and ways to seek help is your first step towards protecting your loved ones against stroke. Additionally, signing up for regular health checkups with certified professionals and healthcare institutions like Manipal Hospitals can help you find an accurate and timely diagnosis for underlying conditions to protect your loved ones' health and well-being. Get the best treatment at the finest neurology hospital in Delhi.
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