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Call the first-aid representative and ambulance.
The first and most critical step when a staff member shows signs of a stroke is to call for immediate medical help. A stroke is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment to prevent serious brain damage or death. The management assistant should quickly notify the workplace’s designated first-aid representative and call an ambulance without delay. Time is of the essence—emergency responders can begin treatment and ensure the person is transported safely to a hospital.
Put a cushion under the person’s head and shoulders.
While waiting for professional help to arrive, it’s important to make the person as comfortable as possible. Placing a soft cushion under the head and shoulders slightly elevates them, which can help improve blood flow to the brain and reduce pressure. This position also ensures the person is not lying flat, which may worsen breathing difficulty or discomfort.
Loosen tight clothes around the neck.
Any tight clothing—like ties, scarves, or collars—should be gently loosened around the neck to help with breathing and reduce discomfort. Restricted airflow can worsen the effects of a stroke or increase anxiety in the person, so this action supports both comfort and safety while awaiting medical help.
Do not give the person anything to drink.
A stroke often affects the person’s ability to swallow safely, and giving them anything to eat or drink could lead to choking. Even if the person asks for water, it’s safest to politely refuse and explain that help is on the way. Only trained medical personnel should assess and manage any food or drink intake in such situations.
Keep the person in a calm environment.
Reducing noise and unnecessary activity around the person can help lower anxiety and stress. A calm atmosphere helps the individual remain relaxed, which is vital since stress can elevate blood pressure and worsen stroke symptoms. The management assistant should speak gently and reassure the person that help is coming, while also keeping others from crowding the scene.
If unconscious, put the person in the recovery position.
If the person becomes unconscious but is still breathing, place them gently into the recovery position. This means rolling the person onto their side, tilting their head back slightly to open the airway, and bending one leg to stabilize their posture. This position prevents choking if vomiting occurs and keeps the airway clear until paramedics arrive.
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