Strokes: A guide for OFA 1 First Aid Attendants

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A stroke is a severe medical emergency that requires immediate first aid intervention. It occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). As a WorkSafeBC-certified OFA Level 1 first aid attendant, recognizing and responding to a stroke quickly can greatly improve the patient’s outcome.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

A stroke can develop suddenly, and identifying the symptoms early is key to effective first aid response. Common stroke symptoms include:

  • Facial drooping – One side of the face may appear drooped or uneven. Ask the patient to smile and look for asymmetry.
  • Arm weakness – The patient may have difficulty lifting one or both arms. Ask them to hold their arms straight out and see if one drifts downward.
  • Speech difficulty – Slurred, confused, or difficult-to-understand speech.
  • Other signs – Dizziness, confusion, severe headache, blurred vision, or trouble walking.

The FAST Mnemonic for Stroke Identification:

  • Face drooping
  • Arm weakness
  • Speech difficulty
  • Time to call 911

If any of these symptoms appear, assume the patient is having a stroke and act immediately.

First Aid Response for a Stroke

When responding to a stroke emergency in the workplace, follow the WorkSafeBC Priority Action Approach:

1. Scene Assessment

  • Ensure the scene is safe for yourself and the patient.
  • Identify any hazards that could pose additional risks.
  • Determine the number of affected individuals.

2. Responsiveness Assessment

  • Assess the patient’s level of consciousness using the AVPU scale:
    • Alert – The patient is responsive.
    • Verbal – The patient responds to voice.
    • Pain – The patient responds to painful stimulus.
    • Unresponsive – No response to stimuli.

3. Primary Survey – ABCs

  • Airway (A) – Ensure the patient’s airway is open. If unconscious, use the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver.
  • Breathing (B) – Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing.
  • Circulation (C) – Check for signs of shock, including pale, clammy skin.

4. Activate Emergency Response

  • Instruct a co-worker to call 911 or the workplace Emergency Transport Vehicle (ETV).
  • Provide the dispatcher with:
    • Location of the incident.
    • Patient’s condition (suspected stroke).
    • Number of injured workers.
  • Have the co-worker confirm once the call has been made.

5. Critical Interventions

  • Positioning:
    • If responsive, keep the patient comfortable and seated.
    • If unresponsive, place them in the recovery position (¾-prone) to prevent choking.
  • Monitor airway and breathing while waiting for emergency responders.
  • Reassure the patient to keep them calm.
  • Do not give food or water – They may have difficulty swallowing.

Secondary Survey and Ongoing Assessment

  • Reassess ABCs every 5 minutes while waiting for medical help.
  • Gather medical history if possible:
    • Does the patient have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or previous strokes?
    • Are they on blood thinners or other medications?
  • Monitor for changes in their condition and update emergency responders.

Documentation

  • Complete a first aid record including:
    • Time symptoms started.
    • Observations and interventions.
    • Any changes in the patient’s condition.

Key Takeaways

  • Recognize a stroke quickly using the FAST mnemonic.
  • Call 911 immediately – Early medical intervention is crucial.
  • Ensure an open airway and place unconscious patients in the recovery position.
  • Monitor the patient continuously while waiting for emergency personnel.
  • Complete proper documentation in accordance with WorkSafeBC first aid requirements.

By following these steps, Level 1 first aid attendants can provide life-saving care in the event of a stroke, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.

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