The 'FAST' mnemonic for recognizing a stroke stands for:
Explanation
FAST is the American Stroke Association's public-recognition mnemonic: Face drooping (ask the person to smile — is one side drooping?), Arm weakness (ask to raise both arms — does one drift down?), Speech difficulty (ask to repeat a simple sentence — is it slurred or strange?), Time to call 911 immediately and note when symptoms began (eligibility for tPA clot-buster medication is roughly 3-4.5 hours from onset). Some agencies use 'BE-FAST' adding Balance and Eyes. Rapid recognition and 911 activation saves brain tissue: 'Time is brain.'
Law Reference: American Stroke Association FAST mnemonicThis topic, taught in full in the California Guard Card (BSIS Security Guard) guide. California Guard Card — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $9.99 · 14-day refund →
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