Stroke ‘’CVA’’

Pathophysiology Types of Strokes

Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA) happens when the
brain lacks oxygen resulting in long-term permanent • TIA - Transient Ischemic Attack - tiny lack of oxygen
damage. Typically resulting from a blood clot, narrowed • Transient: short time frame
blood vessels (arteriosclerosis) or a ruptured blood vessel • Ischemic: Low oxygen
(aneurysm). • Attack: Happens suddenly ...TIA’s come & go often
resolving
Causes • CVA - Cerebral vascular accident - no oxygen causing
long-term damage!
#1 Hypertension (Over 140 sys) MOST TESTED • Ischemic CVA - Clot = Low O2 (called embolic or
thrombotic stroke)
Most important to PREVENT a stroke:
• Hemorrhagic CVA - Bleed = HIGH ICP (from an
• Take Antihypertensive Meds regularly aneurysm)

HESI Question
Highest risk for stroke
142/94 mmHg.

KAPLAN Question
Hypertension =
highest risk factor for Tricky NCLEX Question
CVA For clients recovering
from Stroke with HIGH BP:
Smoking: Scars the blood vessels making them weak
Hyperlipidemia (HIGH cholesterol) create narrowed blood Over 200 systolic Intervention:
vessels Keep Systolic BP above
Uncontrolled Diabetes: THICK sugar in the blood puts 170 mmHg for the first
loads of pressure on the vessels
24 - 48 hours

Signs & Symptoms

Hemiparesis - Unilateral weakness

F A S T
One sided weakness Facial & Smile Droop Arm Drift
“1 sided weakness”
Speech Impairment Time to CALL 911!
CT scan Immediately
New, Sudden “Arm Drift” NCLEX TIP

NCLEX TIP

NCLEX Question
Hemorrhagic Stroke Most concerning patient
statement with diplopia
“Ruptured cerebral aneurysm”
and new weakness, & onset
Severe headache vomiting without nausea:
“I have the worst
headache of my life”