In a patient with suspected stroke and a stable airway, which is the recommended action?

• A. Recovery Position And Transport
• B. Provide Ventilatory Support Immediately
• C. Stop Airflow And Monitor Quietly
• D. Give Nitroglycerin

Answer: (A)

When stroke is suspected and the airway is stable, the priority is to protect the airway while getting the patient to definitive care quickly. Placing the patient in the recovery position on their side helps prevent aspiration if vomiting occurs and allows secretions to drain, while you continue to monitor breathing and consciousness. Oxygen should be given only if the patient is hypoxic, keeping saturations in the acceptable range, but unnecessary oxygen isn’t routinely needed. Do not pursue ventilatory support immediately just because the airway is stable; intubation or bag-valve-mask ventilation can delay transport and is only indicated if the patient deteriorates or cannot maintain adequate breaths. Nitroglycerin is not routinely given in suspected stroke and can lower blood pressure or complicate care unless there is a specific cardiac indication per protocol. The focus is on safe airway management and rapid transport to a stroke-capable facility for imaging and treatment.