Acute Stroke
A 68-year-old client with hypertension and atrial fibrillation is brought in by a family member who reports the client was last known well 90 minutes ago.
Recognize cues
Vital signs: BP 182/98, HR 98 irregular, RR 18, SpO2 96%, temperature 36.8 C. The client has a right facial droop, right arm drift, and slurred speech. Blood glucose is 112 mg/dL.
Which finding requires the most immediate follow-up?
Take action
The provider activates the stroke protocol and orders a non-contrast head CT, neuro checks, NPO status, and IV access.
Which two actions should the nurse take first?
Evaluate outcomes
Four hours after treatment the client has 4/5 strength in the right arm, speech is clear, and the facial droop has resolved. Vital signs: BP 148/84, HR 92, SpO2 97%.
Which finding best indicates the treatment is working?
Ready to answer this case?
Practice the full Acute Stroke case — with answer choices and rationales for every part — in the Neurological quiz.
Practice this case