What does the acronym F.A.S.T. stand for in stroke assessment?

The acronym F.A.S.T. in stroke assessment is pivotal for recognizing the signs of a stroke quickly and acting timely. It stands for Face, Arms, Speech, and Time to call emergency services, which encapsulates the critical aspects to evaluate when a stroke is suspected.

• Face: Assess whether one side of the face droops or appears uneven when the person smiles.

• Arms: Check if the person can raise both arms equally; weakness or inability to use one arm can indicate a stroke.

• Speech: Listen for slurred speech or difficulty in articulating words, which may signify that the brain is affected.

• Time: Emphasizes the urgency of dialing emergency services as strokes require immediate medical attention to reduce the risk of severe brain damage and improve outcomes.

Recognizing these signs can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery, which is why the correct answer is instrumental for anyone involved in emergency care or first response situations.