Code Stroke: Early Detection and Quick Action to Save Lives

Sahabat Hermina, stroke is one of the main causes of disability and death throughout the world. Early detection and quick action can reduce the risk of disability and death. Code stroke is a health protocol implemented by hospitals to speed up the treatment of stroke patients.

What is Code Stroke?

Code stroke is an emergency system designed to facilitate rapid evaluation and immediate treatment for individuals suspected of having a new-onset stroke (<4.5 hours). This protocol involves a multidisciplinary team working together to promptly diagnose and treat stroke patients. The goal is to minimize brain damage caused by stroke by providing appropriate treatment within a very limited time window.

Signs and Symptoms of Code Stroke

 It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of code stroke so you can act immediately. There is an abbreviation to make it easier to remember the signs and symptoms of stroke, namely, "Go to Hospital Immediately":

• Asymmetrical smile.
• Movement of half the body is weakened.
• Speaks sloppy.
• Numbness or tingling in half of the body.
• Myopia in one eye and sudden headache.
• Severe headaches that appear suddenly and have never been felt before or sudden loss of balance or coordination.

The Importance of Quick Handling

Every minute counts when dealing with a stroke. The sooner someone gets treatment, the greater the chance of minimizing brain damage according to the principles Time is Brain. In hospitals that have a stroke code, there is a standard stroke management protocol "Door to Needle < 60 menit", specifically for stroke patients, the maximum blockage is less than or equal to 4.5 hours after the event.

Proses Code Stroke

• Emergency Call: When someone shows symptoms of code stroke, an emergency call should be made immediately. Identify yourself and explain that you suspect someone is having a stroke.
• Rapid Transportation to a Medical Facility: Immediately transport the patient to the nearest medical facility that has a stroke unit and a trained medical team.
• Rapid Evaluation: Once the patient arrives at the hospital, the medical team will immediately carry out an evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of stroke the patient is experiencing.
• Immediate Treatment: If a stroke diagnosis is confirmed, treatment such as tPA (alteplase) or a blood clot removal procedure (thrombectomy) may be necessary to restore normal blood flow to the brain.

So, Code Stroke is a vital emergency system for detecting and treating strokes quickly and efficiently. Early detection, rapid transportation to the appropriate medical facility, and with appropriate treatment, we can increase the chances of recovery and reduce the risk of disability due to stroke. Knowing the signs and symptoms of code stroke and having access to appropriate medical facilities is key to saving lives and improving the quality of life for those affected by stroke. Stay healthy.

 

Reference:

Berge E, Whiteley W, Audebert H, et al. European Stroke Organisation (ESO) guidelines on intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke. European Stroke Journal. 2021;6(1):I-LXII.

Powers WJ, Rabinstein AA, Ackerson T, Adeoye OM, Bambakidis NC, Becker, K. Jauch, EC, et al. Guidelines for the Early Management of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: 2019 Update to the 2018 Guidelines for the Early Management of Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Guideline for Healthcare Professionals From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke. 2019;50:e344–e418.

Keputusan Menteri Kesehatan Republik Indonesia. HK.01.07/MENKES/394/2019. Pedoman nasional pelayanan kedokteran Tata laksana Stroke.