What does the acronym "FAST" stand for in emergency response?

The acronym "FAST" is a critical tool used in emergency response, particularly for recognizing the signs of a stroke. Each component of the acronym serves as a reminder for key indicators to assess when someone may be experiencing a stroke:

• "Face" refers to checking for facial drooping, where one side of the face may appear uneven or droopy.

• "Arms" involves asking the person to raise both arms; weakness or inability to do so can indicate a problem.

• "Speech" prompts the assessment of the person's speech for slurring or inability to speak clearly.

• "Time" stresses the importance of seeking emergency medical help immediately if any of the above signs are present, as quick intervention is crucial for improving outcomes in stroke patients.

This straightforward approach allows individuals—whether they are laypersons or trained responders—to quickly assess and act in a potentially life-threatening situation, thereby emphasizing the role of timely response in emergency medical situations. Other choices do not pertain to this established framework for stroke recognition and response, focusing instead on various unrelated safety terms that do not provide the same level of immediacy and relevance in emergency healthcare.