Tick-tock, tick-tock. Every minute counts. Every 40 seconds someone in the US has a stroke. Timely response saves lives and is critical to help those affected not only survive but thrive as well.
Approximately 700,000 Americans have a new or recurrent stroke each year, and stroke remains the third leading cause of death in the United States. Stroke also remains a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States.
With a possible stroke it is imperative that action is taken FAST. If you notice Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, it’s Time to call 911, F.A.S.T.
You’re the Cure advocates have worked hard to put policies in place to help people survive a stroke, like designation of qualified hospitals as Primary Stroke Centers (PSC).
Receiving treatment at a certified PSC can save lives. At the PSC, CT scans of the brain, EKGs, chest X-rays and lab tests should be completed and results reviewed within 45 minutes of being ordered. Time is of the essence. TPA, a drug that breaks up clots that interrupt blood flow to the brain is the first line of defense. PSC’s are required to keep this drug on site. It can be safely administered with positive results up to 4.5 hours after someone first notices stroke symptoms. That makes it critical to note the time of onset of symptoms, if possible.
Being proactive in regards to your health can start by taking a few minutes to call your local hospitals to see if they are on the list of PSC’s.
You can help be the cure: Learn about heart-health issues. Meet other like-minded advocates. Take action and be heard. You have the power. Spread the news with your family and friends. Utilize all your social media accounts. Network for stroke health!
To find all this and more CLICK the PIC:
Blog post by You’re The Cure Advocate Karen Wiggins, LPN, CHWC
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