What is a stroke?
Reduced or interrupted blood supply to the brain, leading to oxygen deprivation and death of brain cells
Stroke can result from a blocked artery, ruptured vessel, or blood clot.
What leads to ischemia in the brain?
Blocked artery leads to loss of oxygen in the brain
This causes brain cell death due to insufficient oxygen and nutrients.
What is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)?
Temporary decrease in blood flow that causes stroke-like symptoms
Also known as a ‘mini stroke’.
*usually only lasts a few mins
*Doesn’t cause permanent damage
* Due to ischemic etiology
Indicates high risk for
* ISCHEMIC STROKE
What are the types of stroke?
- Ischemic
- Hemorrhagic
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Each type has different causes and implications for treatment.
What is a thrombotic stroke?
Blood clot or plaque forms on artery wall
This type of stroke is a form of ischemic stroke.
What happens during a hemorrhagic stroke?
Weakened or ruptured blood vessels burst and allow blood to leak out
This leads to ischemia and increased intracranial pressure (ICP).
What is an embolic stroke?
Fatty plaque or blood clot breaks away and flows to the brain where it blocks blood flow
What is the most common cause of high risk for ischemic stroke?
Uncontrolled hypertension
Associated with higher morbidity and mortality than ischemic strokes.
What is fibrinolytic therapy?
TPA Tissue Plasma Activator (Alteplase) that breaks down blood clots
Must be given within 4.5 hours of onset of symptoms.
What are the antiplatelet therapies used for stroke treatment?
- Aspirin
- Clopidogrel
These medications help prevent further clotting.
What is a carotid endarterectomy?
Surgical procedure to remove blockage in carotid artery
Indicated if there is significant blockage.
What is the purpose of a craniotomy in stroke treatment?
Lowers ICP by draining blood in the brain
This procedure is performed in cases of hemorrhagic stroke.
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
- Balance loss
- Eyesight changes
- Facial drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
Note the time of symptom onset and call 911 immediately.
What are some risk factors for stroke?
- Cardiovascular disease
- Ethnicity (Hispanic & Black)
- Age (55+)
- Family history
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, stress)
These factors increase the likelihood of stroke occurrence.
What are the left-sided symptoms of a stroke?
- Right-sided hemiparesis
- Impaired speech
- Depression, anxiety
Patients may be aware of their deficits.
What are the right-sided symptoms of a stroke?
- Left-sided hemiparesis
- Spatial deficits
- Impaired judgment
Patients may be unaware of their deficits.
What is the gold standard diagnostic tool for stroke?
CT Scan
MRI and ECG are also used, especially for hemorrhagic stroke.
What are some nursing interventions for stroke patients?
- Frequent neuro checks
- Monitor vital signs
- Maintain airway
- NPO until swallow evaluation
- DVT prevention
Elevate HOB to avoid increased ICP and assist with ADLs.
True or false: You should monitor vital signs, especially blood pressure, for intracranial pressure in stroke patients.
TRUE
Monitoring blood pressure is crucial for managing stroke patients.
