SYSTEMATIC-APPROACH TO DIAGNOSIS AND INITIAL MANAGEMENT OF STROKE

Stroke is a medical emergency with high rates of mortality and morbidi ty. Ischemic, stroke should be distinguished from hemorrhagic stroke. Indicators of hemorrhagic stroke include coma, vomiting, severe headac he, a systolic blood pressure greater than 220 mm Hg and a blood gluco se level of 170 mg per dL (9.4 mmol per L). Essential elements of the physical examination Include assessment of level of consciousness, spe ech, cognitive abilities, visual fields, extraocular muscle function, motor function and gait. Computed tomography or magnetic resonance ima ging should be performed. The main goal of treatment is to maximize ph ysical and cognitive function by limiting acute complications and faci litating rehabilitation. The role of the family physician is to stabil ize the patient's condition, coordinate a multidisciplinary team and g uide the patient, as well as the patient's family, through the process of recovery.