skip to main content

Acute stroke — DipIMC MCQ

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

EasyMedical EmergenciesAcute strokeDipIMC

A 68-year-old man has sudden left-sided weakness and aphasia at home. Symptoms started 45 minutes ago, glucose is 6.1 mmol/L and airway is patent. 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: D — Pre-alert and transport directly to the local hyperacute stroke pathway

Suspected acute stroke within the reperfusion window requires rapid transport to an appropriate stroke service with pre-alert and glucose exclusion. Aspirin is usually given after intracranial haemorrhage has been excluded by imaging. Waiting for spontaneous recovery risks losing thrombolysis or thrombectomy time. The pearl is that time of onset and last-known-well are critical pre-hospital data.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; NICE Stroke and TIA NG128