First Aid for Strokes
Updated August 2024.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a medical emergency where the blood supply to the brain is disrupted. Most strokes are caused by a clot in a blood vessel which blocks the flow of blood to the brain. However, some strokes occur due to a ruptured blood vessel causing bleeding into the brain. If you suspect a stroke – get medical assistance immediately.
How to recognise a stroke
You need to act ‘FAST’!
- F – Facial weakness – Can the person smile? If they’ve had a stroke one side of their face may droop.
- A – Arm weakness – Can the person raise both arms and keep them raised? If they’ve had a stroke they may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in 1 arm.
- S – Speech problems – Ask the person a question. If they’ve had a stroke they may have problems speaking clearly, either slurring or not making any sense.
- T – Time – It’s time to call 999 or 112 and ask for an ambulance. Tell ambulance control you’ve used the FAST guide and you suspect a stroke.
Whilst waiting for emergency help to arrive, keep the casualty comfortable and supported and reassure them that help is on its way.
What’s a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)?
A Transient Ischaemic Attack is also sometimes known as a ‘mini-stroke’. A TIA is similar to a full stroke but the symptoms may only last a few minutes. If you suspect a TIA, it’s important to seek medical advice immediately, even if the symptoms go away.
Learn more about stroke here:
This isn’t a substitute for first aid training. If you’d like to be able to deal with a variety of first aid issues with confidence, book a first aid course in Newcastle, the North East or wherever you need us! Get in touch for more information.