What does the FAST acronym stand for in stroke assessment?

What does the FAST acronym stand for in stroke assessment?

• A. Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call for help.
• B. Arm weakness, Face drooping, Speech difficulties, Time to call for help.
• C. Face drooping, Time to call for help, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties.
• D. Speech difficulties, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Time to call for help.

Answer: (A)

FAST is a quick-screening approach to identify potential stroke and act fast. Face drooping signals weakness on one side of the face; have the person smile to spot asymmetry. Arm weakness is checked by asking them to stretch both arms straight ahead to see if one drifts downward. Speech difficulties include slurred speech or trouble speaking clearly. Time to call for help emphasizes calling emergency services immediately so the person can get urgent evaluation and treatment. The four elements together—Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call for help—provide a simple, rapid way to recognize a possible stroke and prompt fast action.

FAST is a quick-screening approach to identify potential stroke and act fast. Face drooping signals weakness on one side of the face; have the person smile to spot asymmetry. Arm weakness is checked by asking them to stretch both arms straight ahead to see if one drifts downward. Speech difficulties include slurred speech or trouble speaking clearly. Time to call for help emphasizes calling emergency services immediately so the person can get urgent evaluation and treatment. The four elements together—Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call for help—provide a simple, rapid way to recognize a possible stroke and prompt fast action.