Which action is included in the BLS protocol for stroke/TIA when symptoms are less than 24 hours in duration?

Which action is included in the BLS protocol for stroke/TIA when symptoms are less than 24 hours in duration?

• A. Expedite transport
• B. BH initial notification early to confirm destination
• C. Notify accepting Stroke Receiving Center of potential stroke code patient enroute
• D. Maintain O2 saturation at 94-98%

Answer: (D)

Maintaining adequate oxygenation is essential in acute stroke and TIA care because brain tissue is highly sensitive to low oxygen levels. The action that aligns with BLS practice in this scenario is keeping the patient’s oxygen saturation in the normal range, specifically 94–98%. When SpO2 falls below that, provide supplemental oxygen to bring it up to target, ensuring the brain continues to receive enough oxygen during assessment and transport. This focus on preventing hypoxia is the key concept behind the correct choice. While rapid transport and coordinating with a stroke receiving center are important parts of stroke care, the on-scene BLS action emphasized here is maintaining normal oxygen saturation.

Maintaining adequate oxygenation is essential in acute stroke and TIA care because brain tissue is highly sensitive to low oxygen levels. The action that aligns with BLS practice in this scenario is keeping the patient’s oxygen saturation in the normal range, specifically 94–98%. When SpO2 falls below that, provide supplemental oxygen to bring it up to target, ensuring the brain continues to receive enough oxygen during assessment and transport. This focus on preventing hypoxia is the key concept behind the correct choice.

While rapid transport and coordinating with a stroke receiving center are important parts of stroke care, the on-scene BLS action emphasized here is maintaining normal oxygen saturation.