Which assessments should an EMT perform to check for a possible stroke?

The correct answer involves assessing control of facial muscles, ability to speak, and the arms held in an extended position. These assessments are crucial for detecting strokes because they are part of the standardized evaluations for stroke symptoms.

Checking the control of facial muscles can help identify facial drooping, which is a common sign of a stroke. If one side of the face droops when the individual is asked to smile, it indicates potential neurological impairment. Similarly, assessing the ability to speak is vital, as slurred speech or difficulty forming words can suggest that the brain's ability to control speech is affected.

The assessment of arms in an extended position tests for weakness or paralysis. In a stroke, especially in the case of a cerebrovascular accident in one hemisphere, the patient may not be able to lift one arm as high as the other or may not be able to hold both arms up at the same time.

These components combined provide a quick and effective way to identify possible stroke symptoms and allow for prompt medical intervention, which is critical in stroke cases.