Call 911 if you need help!

React Quickly to Stroke!

According to Penn Medicine, "When a person is having a stroke, every second counts. And what you do in those critical moments can potentially help save someone's life."

Below are three steps to take when someone is having a stroke:

1) Call 911 immediately! If you notice someone suffering symptoms of a stroke, call 911! Frequently stroke patients will feel very sleepy. Don't let that person fall asleep or talk you out of calling 911. Time is of the essence. Use the FAST stroke test (explained below) to diagnose a likely stroke.

2) Note the first time you see symptoms. A clot-busting medicine can be given to someone if they are having a stroke, potentially reversing or stopping symptoms from developing, but it must be given with the first 4.5 hours of stroke onset. Let emergency responders know when you first noticed any stroke symptoms.

3) Perform CPR, if necessary. Most stroke patients do not need CPR but, if your friend or spouse is unconscious when you find him, check his pulse and breathing. If you find none, call 911 and start CPR while you are waiting for the ambulance. You can ask the 911 dispatcher to walk you through the CPR if needed.

The FAST Stroke Test can help you quickly discern if someone is likely having a stroke.