Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/494026
For many medical emergencies, such as a stroke or a heart attack, time is of the essence, and delays in treatment can often lead to more serious consequences. If you or a loved one is experiencing an emergency, immediately get to a hospital emergency department or call 911 if your situation is unstable and life threatening. Many people delay seeking emergency care because they are simply unsure if they or their loved ones are actually experiencing a true medical emergency. The following signs and symptoms are common warning signs of medical emergencies: • broken bones or complex fractures • chest pain, especially if it radiates to an arm or the jaw or is accompanied by sweating, vomiting or shortness of breath • diffi culty breathing or persistent shortness of breath • difficulty speaking, altered mental status or confusion • dizziness, balance problems or severe vision changes HOSPITAL Early in the morning, your husband wakes and is having trouble speaking and understanding you — both•clear signs he is experiencing a stroke. It's a medical emergency, and you must use your time wisely. That's when you need expert emergency care. F A S T Act FAST at the First Sign of Stroke A stroke is an emergency. Knowing the telltale signs of stroke could save your life or the life of someone you care about. Remember to act FAST and be aware of: Face drooping –– Smile for a few seconds. Is one side of your smile uneven? Arm weakness –– Hold your arms up. Are you having trouble keeping them even or raising one arm higher than the other? Speech diffi culty –– Listen for slurred or muffl ed speech. Try repeating a simple sentence or common saying. Time –– When you or someone you love is experiencing a stroke, every second counts as precious brain cells that control speech and movement are being damaged. Call 911 immediately! The responding emergency medical services team can stabilize you or your loved one so treatment can begin as soon as you arrive at the emergency department. I It Time t G t the ? 4 christushospital.org