What is the first action to take upon assessing someone with a suspected stroke within the first hour?

The first action to take upon assessing someone with a suspected stroke within the first hour is to perform a CT scan without contrast. This step is crucial because it helps to quickly determine the type of stroke – whether it is ischemic or hemorrhagic. In cases of ischemic stroke, timely identification allows for appropriate interventions, such as thrombolytics, to be administered. Conversely, if the stroke is hemorrhagic, specific treatments and interventions can be initiated to prevent further complications.

Conducting a CT scan without contrast is essential during the acute evaluation phase because it is rapid, widely available, and highly effective in ruling out hemorrhagic strokes. This initial imaging plays a pivotal role in the management and treatment planning for stroke patients, influencing outcomes significantly. Following this crucial diagnostic step, further evaluations and treatments can be tailored to the patient's specific type of stroke.