Learn FAST and save a life
June 11, 2020
Stroke Foundation has urged the people of New South Wales (NSW) to learn the F.A.S.T. (Face. Arms. Speech. Time.) message and to call triple zero (000) at the first sign of stroke.
The message comes following emerging reports some people may be delaying calling an ambulance and going to hospital through fear of contracting the coronavirus (COVID-19) whilst in hospital.
Stroke Foundation New South Wales State Manager Rhian Paton-Kelly said while community concern was understandable it was vital to call an ambulance at the first sign of stroke and in other medical emergencies.
“Quick action to call an ambulance can make the difference between life and death,’’ Ms Paton-Kelly said.
“When a stroke strikes the brain, it kills up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute, but treatment can stop this damage. Time saved in calling an ambulance and accessing treatment for stroke is brain saved.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a stressful time, we are all doing what we can to stop the spread, but it is important to recognise the NSW health system is still operating and measures are in place to ensure patient safety from the virus.”
Almost 19,000 strokes will be experienced by NSW residents this year and there are almost 160,000 stroke survivors living in the NSW community.
“The first step in ensuring better outcomes from stroke is getting to hospital quickly, and that means recognising the F.A.S.T. signs and calling triple zero (000) straight away,’’ she said.
“I urge everyone to learn the F.A.S.T. message and share it with your friends, family and colleagues.
“It could save a life.”
Supported by NSW Health, Stroke Foundation has released a video to help people learn the F.A.S.T. message. Watch here. Stroke Foundation offers StrokeSafe talks online. Request a speaker here.
The F.A.S.T. test is a simple way we can all learn and remember the signs of stroke:
· Face: Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
· Arms: Can they lift both arms?
· Speech: Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
· Time is critical. If you see any of these signs call triple zero (000) straight away.
The message comes following emerging reports some people may be delaying calling an ambulance and going to hospital through fear of contracting the coronavirus (COVID-19) whilst in hospital.
Stroke Foundation New South Wales State Manager Rhian Paton-Kelly said while community concern was understandable it was vital to call an ambulance at the first sign of stroke and in other medical emergencies.
“Quick action to call an ambulance can make the difference between life and death,’’ Ms Paton-Kelly said.
“When a stroke strikes the brain, it kills up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute, but treatment can stop this damage. Time saved in calling an ambulance and accessing treatment for stroke is brain saved.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a stressful time, we are all doing what we can to stop the spread, but it is important to recognise the NSW health system is still operating and measures are in place to ensure patient safety from the virus.”
Almost 19,000 strokes will be experienced by NSW residents this year and there are almost 160,000 stroke survivors living in the NSW community.
“The first step in ensuring better outcomes from stroke is getting to hospital quickly, and that means recognising the F.A.S.T. signs and calling triple zero (000) straight away,’’ she said.
“I urge everyone to learn the F.A.S.T. message and share it with your friends, family and colleagues.
“It could save a life.”
Supported by NSW Health, Stroke Foundation has released a video to help people learn the F.A.S.T. message. Watch here. Stroke Foundation offers StrokeSafe talks online. Request a speaker here.
The F.A.S.T. test is a simple way we can all learn and remember the signs of stroke:
· Face: Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
· Arms: Can they lift both arms?
· Speech: Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
· Time is critical. If you see any of these signs call triple zero (000) straight away.