After identifying a stroke, what should you do immediately to support breathing?

• A. Provide oxygen and maintain airway
• B. Check blood glucose
• C. Move the patient
• D. Administer aspirin

Answer: (A)

Securing the airway and supporting breathing is the immediate priority when a stroke is suspected. In emergencies, use the ABC approach: airway first, then breathing, then circulation. If the airway is obstructed or breathing is inadequate, brain tissue can be quickly starved of oxygen, worsening outcomes. Providing oxygen helps ensure adequate oxygen levels for the brain and vital organs, and keeping the airway clear—through positioning and airway maneuvers as needed—protects against airway obstruction.

Checking blood glucose is still important to rule out a hypoglycemic episode that can mimic stroke, but it does not address breathing. Moving the patient unnecessarily can risk further injury or worsen breathing problems, and aspirin is a treatment for the stroke itself that should be considered after airway and breathing are stabilized and contraindications are ruled out.