If a stroke is recognized and treated quickly (usually within 3 hours) the effects may be reversed.
How do you recognize a stroke?
S * Ask the individual to SMILE.
T * Ask the person to TALK (SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE )
A* Ask the person to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
T* Ask the person to ‘stick’ out his or her TONGUE. If the tongue is ‘crooked’, if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.
If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call 911 immediately (STAT is a medical term for IMMEDIATELY).
When the ambulance arrives tell the Emergency team the symptoms and request they take the patient to an ER that has a stroke team on call!
Crown Care Hawaii 