If you suspect someone has had a stroke, what is the most important piece of information to find out?

Determining the last time the individual was seen normal is crucial in the case of a suspected stroke because it directly impacts treatment options and outcomes. The effectiveness of certain therapies, especially thrombolytic agents used to dissolve clots in ischemic strokes, is heavily time-dependent. These medications are most effective when administered within a specific time frame from the onset of symptoms, commonly referred to as the "golden hour." By knowing when the person was last normal, healthcare providers can determine their eligibility for such treatments and make more informed decisions about immediate care. This time frame is essential in the critical early minutes after the onset of symptoms, as every minute counts in reducing the risk of long-term disability or death.

While understanding a patient's medication history, neurological history, and the condition of their pupils are important aspects of assessment, they do not influence the immediate treatment decision to the extent that knowing the last normal baseline does. This timing information can be a vital clue to the type and severity of the stroke, guiding emergency responders in their interventions.