# Stroke

Recognise stroke? If you see any of these symptoms, act F.A.S.T.! F – Has the person’s FACE drooped? A – Can they lift both ARMS? S – Is the person’s SPEECH slurred? Do they understand you? T – Call triple zero (000). TIME is critical. © Stroke Foundation https://strokefoundation.org.au/

Signs and symptoms

facial weakness

arm weakness

weakness or paralysis, especially on one side of the body

difficulty speaking or understanding

feeling of numbness in face, arm or leg

disturbed vision

loss of balance

faintness, dizziness

confusion

loss of consciousness

What to do 1 Follow DRSABCD. 2 Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. 3 Reassure the patient. The patient may not be able to clearly communicate, which may cause them extreme anxiety. 4 Help the patient to sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Support the patient’s head and shoulders on pillows. 5 Loosen any tight clothing. 6 Keep the patient warm. 7 Wipe away any secretions from the patient’s mouth. 8 Stay with the patient until medical aid arrives.