What are some signs of a stroke that DCWs should recognize?

Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial for Direct Care Workers (DCWs), as timely intervention can significantly impact a person's outcome. The correct choice highlights symptoms that are commonly associated with a stroke, specifically sudden numbness, confusion, and difficulty walking.

These symptoms are key indicators of a stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to damage to brain tissue. Sudden numbness, especially if it affects one side of the body, can point to a stroke affecting the brain's motor functions. Confusion may manifest as difficulty understanding speech or trouble speaking, which is often a result of brain areas responsible for language being affected. Difficulty walking may also occur due to loss of coordination or control of movement, which is a common consequence of brain impairment during a stroke.

In contrast, other choices present symptoms that do not accurately reflect a stroke. While a sudden headache and feeling tired are concerning health issues, they are not specific enough to indicate an acute stroke situation. Excessive sweating and restlessness can be symptoms of various medical conditions but are not classic signs of a stroke. Similarly, a persistent cough and high fever may indicate an infection or respiratory issue, which are unrelated to the acute neurological deficits one would observe during a stroke event