skip to main content

Suspected large-vessel occlusion stroke — DipIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRetrieval MedicineSuspected large-vessel occlusion strokeDipIMC

A 71-year-old man with acute stroke is at a rural ambulance station. The nearest stroke unit is 25 minutes away; the thrombectomy centre is 70 minutes away and the patient has dense hemiplegia with gaze deviation. What is the most appropriate transport decision?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Follow regional stroke bypass protocol and pre-alert for possible thrombectomy pathway

Suspected large-vessel occlusion may require thrombectomy pathway consideration, but decisions should follow regional protocols balancing time, imaging and reperfusion capability. Aspirin before imaging is not appropriate. Choosing the nearest non-capable site may delay definitive treatment. The pearl is that stroke retrieval increasingly depends on network design, not just nearest door.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; NICE Stroke and TIA NG128