Time is brain. That’s why Willis-Knighton offers best practice protocols for treatment of stroke. Willis-Knighton offers accredited stroke centers at WK Pierremont Health Center and WK Bossier Health Center and follows protocols at each hospital emergency room. These methods help identify acute strokes and enable prompt treatment. Quick treatment results in a faster recovery with better functional results.
Willis-Knighton also supports public education of the BEFAST acronym. This acronym can help the public recognize symptoms of stroke and get to an emergency room quickly.
B BALANCE dizzy, unsteady
E EYES vision loss
F FACE drooping
A ARM weakness
S SPEECH difficult or hard to understand
T TIME to call 9-1-1?
If someone is having these symptoms, you should immediately call 9-1-1. Why? Because paramedics will respond quickly and immediately begin delivering information to the emergency room. Because time is critical, this is always the best way to get the most effective care. A person experiencing these symptoms should never attempt to drive a vehicle, and the best way a friend or family member can support the person with symptoms is to make the 9-1-1 call and stay with the person until 9-1-1 arrives.