How To Spot A Stroke - Think FAST

 

First of all, what actually is a stroke? A stroke is a serious life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. A stroke can occur to anyone at any age.

There are two types of stroke, and the signs are very similar:

  • Caused by a blood clot which blocks a blood vessel supplying part of the brain. This is the most common type of stroke.
  • Caused by a blood vessel in the brain rupturing. This results in a part of the brain being squashed by the pressure of the blood.

Strokes are a medical emergency and urgent treatment is essential. The sooner a person receives treatment for a stroke, the less damage is likely to happen. If you think someone may be having a stroke carry out the FAST test:

FACIAL WEAKNESS – Has their mouth or eye drooped? Can they smile?

ARM WEAKNESS – Can they raise both arms?

SPEECH PROBLEMS – Can they speak clearly and understand you?

TIME TO CALL 999 – If they fail any of these tests it is a medical emergency

If someone has had a stroke they will need an urgent scan in hospital so the correct treatment can be provided. The speed of treatment has a large effect on the person’s chance of recovery. So please remember to call 999 and not a doctor so that treatment isn’t delayed.

To learn more life-saving skills attending a First Aid course is what you need to do. We hold regular First Aid At Work courses in central Cardiff. There are two levels of courses available depending on the level of risk in your workplace. Click these links to find out the dates of upcoming courses and to book places online:

Alternatively, many employers prefer First Aid training to be carried out at their own workplace so we can provide a quote for us to come to you. 

Here's how to get in touch and find out more information:

 

St David’s First Aid Training – keeping you safe and legal.