Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA) Flashcards
What is a Stroke (CVA / Brain Attack)?
Occurs when there is inadequate blood flow (ischemia) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhage), leading to brain cell death.
What is the 5th leading cause of death in the United States?
Stroke.
What percentage of strokes are ischemic?
87%.
What is the primary cause of hemorrhagic stroke?
High blood pressure.
What is the critical time frame for thrombolytic therapy (tPA) in ischemic stroke?
Within 3-4.5 hours of onset.
What does the acronym BE FAST stand for in stroke assessment?
- Balance – dizziness, lack of coordination
- Eyes – vision changes, blurry or loss of vision
- Face – drooping, uneven smile
- Arms – weakness, inability to raise both arms
- Speech – slurred, difficulty speaking or understanding
- Time – Act FAST! Call 911 immediately.
What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
A ‘mini-stroke’ – temporary blockage with symptoms lasting less than 24 hours.
List the modifiable risk factors for stroke.
- High blood pressure
- Atrial fibrillation
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High cholesterol
- Poor nutrition
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Sleep apnea
What are the main types of ischemic strokes?
- Thrombotic Stroke
- Embolic Stroke
What are the clinical signs of a hemorrhagic stroke?
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck (nuchal rigidity)
- Vision problems
- Sudden loss of consciousness
- Seizures
What is the first test conducted to diagnose a stroke?
CT Scan.
True or False: Atrial fibrillation can lead to an embolic stroke.
True.
Fill in the blank: The brain requires constant _______ and _______ for survival.
glucose; oxygen.
What are common complications following an ischemic stroke?
- Increased intracranial pressure (IICP)
- Urinary tract infections
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Hyperglycemia
- Immobility complications (DVT, pneumonia)
What surgical procedure removes plaque in the carotid artery?
Carotid Endarterectomy.
