On arrival, I assessed her using FAST. Facial movement and speech were normal, but her balance and leg strength were affected. I called 111 immediately.
She was taken to hospital where a minor stroke was confirmed. After five days she returned home and has almost fully recovered.
Once again, FAST action saved a life.
Thank you to Irene for sharing her story.
FACE is their face drooping on one side? Can the person smile?
ARM is one arm weak? Can the person raise both arms?
SPEECH is their speech jumbled or slurred? Can the person speak at all?
TAKE ACTION Call 111 straight away, DO NOT DELAY.
Stroke Association NZ recommend “If any of the signs of stroke are recognised, don’t wait, call 111 straight away. Don’t call your doctor, or drive yourself – get help immediately. Ambulance staff want to hear from you if you recognise the F.A.S.T. signs – call 111 and tell them it’s a stroke.
Below is a short video highlighting what you need to know.
For more information, help and advice, check out the support the Stroke Association NZ click the image below:
Tomorrow we will look at how to manage a person experiencing a stroke…..
For great health information, check out Health Navigator New Zealand, where you will find expert opinion online.
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Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that there are variances in protocols, which are identified where necessary.