Question

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Stroke(Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/stroke/index.htm

Initial Discussion Post:

Compose a response to the following questions:

As an RN in an emergency room what signs and symptoms would you associate with someone having a stroke? Would these symptoms be different in different cultures and genders? Identify one culture or gender and discuss their risk factors and presentation of a stroke. During the first 60 minutes of identifying a stroke, what test and treatments should be completed in order to promote the highest level of recovery? What would you include in a teaching plan for this patient?

Answer 1

Signs and Symptoms associated with stroke:

• The weakness of the face, arm, and leg: Due to low oxygen and inadequate perfusion, the tissues are not functioning properly.
• Trouble speaking or slurred speech due to cell ceases to function.
• Visual disturbances due to poor supply of oxygen for optimal functioning.
• Confusion or change in mental status.
• Severe headache may happen sudden and unusual.
• Dizziness
• Lack of coordination(ataxia).
• Altered level of consciousness.
• Nausea and vomiting.

The signs and symptoms may differ between the genders and cultures. When comparing to men, women show diffuse symptoms of weakness, fatigue, and altered mental status. African Americans, Hispanic, Native Americans have a high risk of stroke than the Non-Hispanic whites.

Risk factors of African-American women:

African-American have increased the risk of stroke than any other women. The risk factors include

• Increase intake of salt and sodium result in the increased high blood pressure.
• Poor control of High Blood pressure is an increased risk factor for stroke in African-American.
• sickle-cell anemia is the genetic disorder which decreases blood flow to the brain.
• Increased rate of obesity and diabetes among African-American women will increase the high risk of stroke.
• Other risks include the use of tobacco and alcohol.

Tests and Treatment of stroke within 60 minutes:

• CT scan to determine the type of stroke.
• MRI to know the injuries.
• Carotid ultrasound to know the blocked arteries.
• Echocardiogram to look for clots in the heart.
• tPA a clot-busting drug initially administered.
• Blood thinners such as heparin or coumadin to prevent further clots.

Patient Education:

• Educate patient about lifestyle modifications.
• Maintain blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol level.
• Increased physical activity.
• Stop smoking.
• Encourge to participate in rehabilitation sessions.
• Establish a range of motion and improve ambulation.