Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

Which symptom is NOT part of the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale?

1. Facial droop

2. Arm drift

3. Slurred speech

4. Shortness of breath

The correct answer is: Shortness of breath

The Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS) is specifically designed to identify signs of a stroke in a prehospital setting. It consists of three primary components: facial droop, arm drift, and slurred speech. These components are essential indicators of potential brain injury due to a stroke, allowing healthcare providers to quickly assess and identify individuals who may be experiencing a stroke and require immediate medical attention. Shortness of breath, while it can be a concerning symptom in various medical emergencies, is not included in the CPSS. This scale focuses solely on neurological deficits that are typically associated with strokes. Understanding the specific symptoms that constitute the CPSS is crucial for paramedics and other first responders when evaluating patients for a possible stroke, ensuring that they can make timely and informed decisions regarding treatment and transport to a medical facility.