May Is Stroke Awareness Month

May is Stroke Awareness and Angel Nurseworks wanted bring you some fast facts that may indeed save you or someone else's life.


The below information is per American Stroke Association:

What is stroke?

Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (or ruptures). When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it and brain cells die.

The American Stroke Association provided the acronym F.A.S.T.  It is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke. When you can spot the signs, you'll know that you need to call 9-1-1 for help right away. F.A.S.T. is: Face Drooping -Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven? Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the sentence repeated correctly? Time to call 9-1-1 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.Also remember, every minute matters. It is very important at the onset of any of the above signs/symptoms to call 911 immediately and seek appropriate help. The recommended time is in the ER and treated by 3 hours the latest. It is extremely important to get help immediately in order to help prevent life long disabilities. Hopefully, you are all well and never have to encounter stroke disease but if you do, you will be prepared. Angel Nurseworks is available to answer any questions or refer you to the proper resource. Wishing you well in all that you do! Deneene Shipanga RN BSN Owner/Manager Angel Nurseworks Private Duty Nursing At Its Best www.angelnurseworks.com