If a patient is displaying signs of a stroke, which protocol should be initiated?

When a patient presents with signs of a stroke, it is crucial to initiate the appropriate protocol that specifically addresses the symptoms and management of such a condition. The protocol for Stroke/TIA is designed to provide guidance on recognizing stroke symptoms, which include sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping. This protocol focuses on assessing neurological function, determining the severity of the incident, and facilitating timely and effective emergency medical response.

Initiating this specific protocol enables dispatchers to gather relevant information about the patient's condition, prioritize the response, and provide pre-arrival instructions to bystanders or caregivers if necessary. Given the time-sensitive nature of stroke management, utilizing Protocol 28 ensures that the right steps are taken promptly to improve patient outcomes. It also allows for the identification of potential candidates for advanced treatment options based on the specific type of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) identified through the assessment steps outlined in the protocol.