Stroke: Be Ready to BE FAST

Stroke Be Ready to Act FAST

Understanding your risk for stroke is an important part of preventive health care.

“Once you learn more about how conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can increase your stroke risk, it’s important to work with your provider to develop a care plan. Depending on your risk level, it may include medication and/or lifestyle changes,” says Megan Yellareddigari, BSN, RN, CCRN, Stroke Program Coordinator, Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center.

Princeton Medical Center (PMC) has been designated as a Primary Stroke Center by the State of New Jersey and The Joint Commission. This signifies that PMC maintains neurology and Emergency Department personnel trained in the diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke, as well as acute care rehabilitation services for our patients.

BE FAST

  • BALANCE - Have they suddenly lost balance or coordination? 
  • EYES - Have they experienced blurred, double or loss of vision?  
  • FACE - Ask them to smile. Does one side look like it's drooping? 
  • ARM - Instruct them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? 
  • SPEECH - Ask them to say something. Does it sound strange? 
  • TIME - If you observe symptoms call 911 immediately. 

 

If you or a loved one are experiencing the symptoms of a stroke, call 911 or go to an emergency room. Seeking immediate emergency medical attention can increase the likelihood of survival.

 

For more information on the PMC Stroke Program, or to find a physician who is member of the Medical Staff of Penn Medicine Princeton Health, please call 888.742.7496 or visits princetonhcs.org/directory.