Act FAST to recognize someone suffering stroke symptoms.
Paramedics came recently to our Young Adults Stroke Survivors meeting. They gave these important tips. If you think you or someone you know is having a stroke:
Don't drive yourself to the hospital! You could have an accident! Call 9-1-1 immediately. The paramedics will call the hospital to let them know that a storke patient is coming, and it is easier and more efficient for hospital personnel to receive a patient from an ambulance rather than a car. You'll get your care quicker when you are transported in an ambulance.
Most hospitals in the Silicon Valley are Certified Stroke Centers. You'll be in in good hands.
The paramedics also reminded us to have an emergency contact on your phone. Label it "ICE", which stands for "In Case of Emergency." Emergency personnel know to look for that on cell phones.
It's also a good idea to get an app that can store your medical information. The newest iPhone operating system has a new "Health" app which has a place for medical information, called Medical ID. The Medical ID can be accessed from the emergency dialer without unlocking your phone. Below is a screenshot of my Medical ID information.
It is also a good idea for everyone to have emergency contact information that emergency personnel can find:
- Post Contacts and medical condition on the refrigerator. Paramedics know to look there for emergency information.
- Get a emergency call system, such as Alert One. Find it here.
- Wear a medical I.D. necklace with important information.
