Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What does the 'A' in the FAST acronym stand for?

1. Arm weakness

2. Advanced alertness

3. Arrhythmia

4. Assessment

The correct answer is: Arm weakness

The 'A' in the FAST acronym stands for "Arm weakness." This acronym is commonly used in the context of recognizing the signs of a stroke. Each component of the acronym helps identify potential stroke symptoms, which can be critical for prompt treatment and minimizing potential brain damage. In the case of "Arm weakness," it specifically refers to the loss of strength or coordination in one arm, which may be indicated by the inability to raise both arms evenly. This is a significant symptom because strokes often affect one side of the body, leading to noticeable differences in strength or function. Understanding the FAST acronym—which also includes Facial drooping, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services—enables individuals and first responders to quickly identify and respond to a potential stroke, improving patient outcomes through timely medical intervention.