Which of the following type of stroke is commonly associated with a sudden blockage of blood flow to the brai… - MP NHM CHO-2024 (Shift-2)

MP NHM CHO-2024 (Shift-2)

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: MP NHM CHO-2024 (Shift-2)

Explanation

An ischemic stroke is defined as a sudden loss of brain function due to an obstruction of a blood vessel, which prevents adequate blood flow to a part of the brain.
This obstruction, or 'blockage', is typically caused by a blood clot (either a thrombus formed locally or an embolus that traveled from elsewhere).
The term 'ischemia' itself refers to an inadequate blood supply to an organ or part of the body.
This type accounts for the vast majority of strokes (approximately 87%), making it the most common form associated with a sudden blockage.

Option B: An embolic stroke is a specific subtype of ischemic stroke. While it is a blockage, 'ischemic stroke' is the broader and more encompassing correct answer that includes both embolic and thrombotic causes.
Option C: A haemorrhagic stroke is caused by the rupture and bleeding of a blood vessel, not a blockage. This leads to blood accumulating and compressing brain tissue.
Option D: A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or 'mini-stroke', involves a temporary blockage. By definition, the symptoms resolve completely, usually within 24 hours, and there is no permanent brain infarction.

Visual 1: Diagram - An illustration comparing the three main types of stroke: thrombotic ischemic (clot forms in a brain artery), embolic ischemic (clot travels to the brain), and hemorrhagic (blood vessel ruptures).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Pathophysiology and classification of stroke types helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
The immediate priority in a suspected stroke is a non-contrast CT scan of the head. This is crucial to differentiate between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, as their treatments are completely different.
For an ischemic stroke, thrombolytic therapy (like rtPA) may be administered to dissolve the clot if the patient presents within the therapeutic window (typically 3 to 4.5 hours from symptom onset).
Public health education often uses the F.A.S.T. acronym (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services) to promote rapid recognition and response to stroke symptoms.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question stem: 'sudden blockage of blood flow to the brain'.
Next, analyze the options based on their definitions. Recall or deduce the meaning of each term.
Recognize that 'ischemia' means lack of blood flow, which directly corresponds to a 'blockage'.
'Haemorrhage' means bleeding, which is the opposite of a blockage.
Differentiate between the general category and its subtype. 'Embolic stroke' is a type of 'Ischemic stroke'. The question asks for the general type, making 'Ischemic stroke' the best fit.
Distinguish between a completed stroke and a temporary event. A 'Transient Ischemic Attack' is temporary, whereas the question implies a definitive stroke.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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