Emergency Response
Learn how to respond quickly and effectively during a stroke emergency
Emergency Response 🚑
When stroke strikes, you become the first responder. Your quick thinking and decisive action can save a life and prevent disability.
STROKE EMERGENCY
Don't wait! Don't drive! Call emergency services NOW!
3-Step Emergency Protocol 🎯
Recognize Signs
Use F.A.S.T. method to quickly identify stroke symptoms
Call 911
Call immediately - don't wait, don't drive, don't delay
Provide Care
Keep person calm, safe, and comfortable until help arrives
Emergency Protocol
Step 1: Quick Assessment (F.A.S.T.)
Step 2: Call 911 Immediately
What to Say:
- • "I think someone is having a stroke"
- • Give exact location/address
- • Describe symptoms observed
- • State when symptoms started
- • Mention if person is conscious
Important Information:
- • Person's age and medical history
- • Current medications
- • Any allergies
- • Recent injuries or surgeries
- • Stay on line for instructions
Step 3: Provide Immediate Care
DO:
- • Keep person calm and comfortable
- • Loosen tight clothing
- • Position on side if vomiting
- • Monitor breathing and pulse
- • Note time symptoms started
- • Gather medications to show paramedics
- • Stay with person until help arrives
DON'T:
- • Give food, water, or medications
- • Leave person alone
- • Drive to hospital yourself
- • Wait to see if symptoms improve
- • Give aspirin (unless prescribed)
- • Move person unnecessarily
- • Assume it's not serious
Special Situations
If Person is Unconscious:
- • Check for breathing and pulse
- • Position on side (recovery position)
- • Clear airway if needed
- • Be prepared for CPR if trained
- • Monitor continuously
If Person is Alone:
- • Call 911 immediately
- • Unlock door for paramedics
- • Sit or lie down safely
- • Stay on phone with dispatcher
- • Don't try to drive
If Symptoms Improve:
- • Still call 911 - could be TIA
- • TIA increases stroke risk
- • Medical evaluation still needed
- • Don't cancel emergency call
- • Continue monitoring
Language Barriers:
- • 911 has translation services
- • Use simple gestures
- • Find someone who speaks their language
- • Show F.A.S.T. tests visually
- • Stay calm and reassuring
Why Time is Critical
Remember: Brain cells die every minute during a stroke. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery.
Emergency Contacts & Resources
Emergency Numbers:
- 911 - Emergency Services
- 1-888-4-STROKE - National Stroke Association
- 1-800-787-8537 - American Stroke Association
Prepare in Advance:
- • Know location of nearest stroke center
- • Keep medical information accessible
- • Learn F.A.S.T. method
- • Share knowledge with family/friends
You Are Someone's Hero!
In a stroke emergency, YOU are the difference between hope and despair. Your knowledge and quick action can save a life and preserve a future.
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