When the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, even momentarily, the result is called a stroke. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that this can occur when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts open. This is a serious health concern because prolonged lack of blood to the brain means the oxygen supply is diminished. Medical treatment is important in minimizing the risk of long-term effects of the stroke. The 7 D's of a stroke is an easy to remember method of ensuring prompt and necessary treatment for a stroke victim and is used by medical professionals.
Detection
Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke improves the speed in which the situation can be handled appropriately. The American Stroke Association lists warning signs of a stroke: sudden numbness of the face, arm or leg that typically occurs on just one side; sudden confusion or trouble speaking and understanding speech; difficulty seeing in one or both eyes suddenly; loss of balance and coordination such as trouble walking or becoming dizzy and/or a severe headache that occurs suddenly for no known reason.
Dispatch
As soon as a stroke is thought to be in process or to have occurred, emergency medical treatment, such as dialing 9-1-1, should be contacted. Dispatchers at the emergency services station should be trained in detecting a stroke through asking probing questions of the caller. From here, the dispatcher can appropriately order an ambulance and emergency medical professionals.
Delivery
The importance of the dispatcher detecting a stroke before the emergency care is provided is to ensure the appropriate actions are taken while the patient is on the way to the hospital. This is key in saving lives as well as minimizing stroke damage. The dispatcher and/or ambulance driver can alert the hospital that a stroke victim is on the way to help the facility prepare for appropriate stroke treatment.
Door
As soon as the ambulance arrives at the hospital door, the necessary personnel and equipment should be waiting for the stroke victim. The more rapid the treatment, the less risk of long-term damage to the brain.
Data
Emergency personnel will assess the patient with a physical exam to understand the severity of the stroke. This assesment is important in determining the next steps in treatment. Brain scans may be conducted to determine if any hemorrhaging (bleeding) has occurred in the brain. The likely brain scan is a CT, or computerized tomography. This scan examines the brain from multiple angels to allow the health professional to see any internal damages.
Decision
Once this assessment has taken place, the doctor or health professional will explain to the patient or family what treatment possibilities exist (if applicable), the extent of the damage, the type of the stroke and what the risks and benefits may be for any treatment options.
Drug
Based on the family and patient's decision, drug therapy may begin. This refers to the intravenous administration of fibrinolytic therapy. The medication used in fibrinolytic therapy helps break up any potential blood clots or obstructions that are causing the oxygen and blood blockage in the brain. Patients with internal brain bleeding are not good candidates for this type of medication.
