Class Summary - Today I want you to learn about stroke, seizures and fainting. Step 1 - Read the summaries of all three sudden illnesses and watch the video after each summary for the illness that you read about Step 2 - Read through slides about the illnesses. Step 3 - Complete the google form ws found here - https://forms.gle/utdAHzJXZL8yQwfr7 You may refer back to this website or other resources if you want to. Submit the form when you are finished.
When someone has a seizure it can be scary. Someone may shake (convulsions), cry out, stare off into space or wet their pants. If someone is having convulsions we should move anything in the area that could harm them, cushion their head and call 911 (unless we are told not to because of a previous condition). DO NOT restrain them or place anything in between their teeth (this used to be taught but is not longer an effective practice). It is possible, if someone has had seizures previously that they tell you to do something different. It is ok to listen to what they want you to do. Remember, when in doubt it is always ok to call 911.
A stroke is something that occurs when there is a lack of blood flow to the brain. This could be due to a clot or a burst of a blood vessel. The care for a stroke is to simply recognize that a stroke is occurring and get 911 called. The sooner emergency personnel can take over, the better the outcome for the patient. There is an acronym that helps us identify when a stroke might be happening (FAST – Face, Arm, Speech, Time). Have the person smile. If half of the smile is weakened / drooping it is an indicator of stroke. Have the person lift their arms up in front of them. If the same side arm is weaker as the smile that was droopy it is an indicator of stroke. Have the person say something. If their words are slurred it could be stroke. Take note of the time the symptoms started and call 911.
Fainting can occur because someone cannot catch their breath (playing an instrument), not enough blood flow (standing with locked legs in front of a wedding) or someone is really warm or nervous etc.) Fainting is not necessarily life threatening and one who faints should regain consciousness within a few seconds. If this is the case and it is obvious why the person fainted, 911 might not need to be called. When in doubt, call 911. If possible, lower the person to the ground and raise their legs 6-10" (as long as there is no suspected head, neck or back injury). Monitor the person for any change in condition.
Homework - Google form ws on Seizures, Stroke and Fainting
Objectives - Students will identify signs and symptoms of seizure, stroke and fainting (Standard 1 Core Concepts) Students will state the care for someone who has had a seizure, stroke or fainted (Standard 1 Core Concepts)
