Which acronym is used to identify signs and symptoms of a stroke?

The acronym used to identify signs and symptoms of a stroke is FAST. This stands for Face, Arms, Speech, and Time. Each component of the acronym plays a crucial role in the early recognition of a stroke, which is vital for prompt treatment and improved outcomes.

• "Face" refers to checking if one side of the face droops or appears asymmetric when the person is asked to smile.

• "Arms" involves asking the individual to raise both arms to observe if one arm drifts downward, indicating weakness on one side.

• "Speech" assesses if the person’s speech is slurred or if they have difficulty speaking, which can also signal a stroke.

• "Time" emphasizes the urgency in seeking medical help as stroke treatment is most effective when administered quickly.

Recognizing these signs can lead to rapid transportation to the hospital, where effective treatments can be administered to minimize brain damage and improve recovery chances. Other acronyms such as ABCDE, STAMP, and WAVE are used in different medical contexts, but FAST is specifically tailored to stroke recognition.