Question

A 78-year-old woman with a history of hypertension presents with sudden onset right-sided weakness and aphasia which started 45 minutes ago. On examination she has dense right hemiparesis and expressive aphasia. Her blood pressure is 182/100 mmHg and blood glucose is normal. What is the single most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Arrange an urgent non-contrast CT head to confirm diagnosis and exclude haemorrhage

Answer

Give Aspirin 300 mg orally immediately in the emergency department

Answer

Start low molecular weight Heparin to prevent further cerebral emboli

Answer

Arrange routine MRI brain within 2 weeks

Answer

Discharge her with high-dose Clopidogrel and review in stroke clinic

Practice question