skip to main content

Acute ischaemic stroke with large vessel occlusion — RCPSC EM MCQ

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

HardNeurological emergenciesAcute ischaemic stroke with large vessel occlusionRCPSC EM

A 71-year-old woman is brought 70 minutes after sudden right-sided weakness and aphasia. CT head shows no haemorrhage, CT angiography shows left M1 occlusion, glucose is 6.1 mmol/L, and blood pressure is 174/92 mmHg. What is the most appropriate next step?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — IV thrombolysis if eligible and urgent endovascular thrombectomy referral

Early disabling ischaemic stroke without haemorrhage requires rapid reperfusion assessment. Large vessel occlusion should trigger thrombectomy referral, with IV thrombolysis if eligibility criteria are met.

Reference: Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations