The emergency medical services (EMS) are training their paramedics to better understand the early warning signs of a stroke, in order that they are better able to support stroke victims across the country. Chances of stroke recovery can be greatly enhanced the quicker the victim receives treatment. This is where the national Emergency Medical Services (EMS) stroke awareness comes in. They are implementing an ongoing stroke awareness and support campaign that aims to educate and empower the entire medical services infrastructure that may be called upon to support and treat a stroke victim. They are also aiming at educating the public to be better informed and able to identify early warning signs of stroke and corresponding stroke symptoms. The warning signs of stroke symptoms include: Sudden weakness or numbness in face, arm or leg on one side of the body. Sudden dimness or loss of vision, particularly in one eye. Loss of speech, trouble talking or trouble understanding speech. Many stroke victims say they know something is happening but are unable to get the words out to tell anyone or that when they do speak, it is mumbled and undistinguishable as speech. Intense and sudden headaches for no apparent reason. Feeling dizzy or unsteady or being unable to stand up, particularly if linked with any of the above symptoms. The package being introduced by the EMS is aimed at educating and empowering everybody who plays any role within the realm of supporting a stroke victim. From call handlers, to paramedics, to medical staff, and even the scientists and research staff. The end result is a system that can get the support to a victim as quickly as possible to ensure their chances of stroke recovery are as high as possible. A recent study by the Central New York EMS program found the average person who had a stroke waited nearly 2 hours before calling for assistance. EMS has attempted to fight this delay by becoming more aggressive with public education on stroke warning signs and symptoms and urging patients to call 911 or the their EMS for assistance at the first signs of stroke. The emergency services have streamlined protocols and processes for dealing with stroke victims, but it's vital that they get the call for help as quickly as possible. Paramedics have the knowledge and training to administer appropriate support to stroke victims "at the scene" which again greatly increases the chances for recovery. Some of these improvements include more appropriate patient assessments, better understanding of stroke symptoms, reports to physicians in emergency departments and transporting the patients to hospitals with stroke teams. The survival of stroke patients is dependent on a team approach to care. Stroke care starts with the patient recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of a stroke and activating the EMS system as soon as possible. It really is critical that a stroke victim receive medical attention as quickly as possible to increase their chances of survival.
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