A stroke is also called?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

A stroke is the clinical term for an acute-onset neurological deficit resulting from an issue with the brain's blood vessels.
The medical term for this event is Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), which accurately describes an 'accident' or event in the 'vascular' system of the 'cerebrum' (brain).
Strokes are broadly classified as ischemic (due to blockage) or hemorrhagic (due to bleeding), both of which fall under the CVA definition.
The term 'stroke' is the common name, while 'Cerebrovascular Accident' is the formal medical designation.

Option A: Peripheral vascular disease affects blood vessels outside of the heart and brain, most commonly in the limbs (legs and arms). A stroke specifically involves the brain's vasculature.
Option B: Myocardial infarction is the medical term for a heart attack. It involves the death of heart muscle tissue due to a lack of blood supply, not brain tissue.
Option C: Coronary artery disease is a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. While it is a risk factor for a heart attack, it is not a stroke.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Medical terminology for stroke as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Recognizing that a stroke is a 'brain attack' or CVA is critical for nurses to educate patients and families on the need for immediate emergency care.
Nurses use the FAST acronym (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services) for rapid stroke assessment and to teach public awareness.
A key nursing role in stroke care is monitoring for changes in neurological status, managing blood pressure, and preparing for potential interventions like thrombolysis.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'stroke'.
The question asks for an alternative name, implying you need to recall the medical terminology for this common condition.
Analyze the options by breaking down the medical terms. 'Cerebro-' refers to the brain, and 'vascular' refers to blood vessels.
Evaluate each option: 'Myocardial' and 'Coronary' relate to the heart. 'Peripheral' relates to the limbs.
Conclude that 'Cerebrovascular accident' is the only term that correctly describes a vascular event in the brain.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 1251-1253

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 1170-1172

Practise the full DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.