A is for Airways
Obstruction or dysfunction of the airway is not uncommon in acute stroke. An obstructed airway further decreases the amount of oxygen getting to the brain cells in areas of decreased blood flow.[15] To ensure that the patient's airway is maintained during acute ischemic stroke, nurses should be prepared to suction, control the airway, and prevent aspiration. Patients unable to handle secretions need to be intubated to protect the airway. Initially, if the level of consciousness is decreased, but the ability to swallow is intact, the patient may only need an oral or nasal aid to maintain the airway.
Emergency department nurses are asked frequently to give medications or fluids to a stroke patient. Dysphagia (“g” goes with “gag”) is a sign of a potentially dysfunctional airway and an obvious risk for aspiration. In one study of 30 patients with acute stroke, dysphagia was noted in 57%. These patients had longer hospital stays, more complications, and a higher rate of morbidity.[16] Assessment of swallowing ability should be carried out according to institutional policy and procedure guidelines. Following a dysphagia screening protocol, or algorithm, is recommended as standard practice in the evaluation of patients with acute stroke.[17] Should the patient choke, gag, or gasp for breath before or during screening, he or she should be kept nothing by mouth (NPO). Patients receiving rt-PA should also be kept NPO during administration and followed by the swallow test as soon as possible. Brain stem infarcts increase the risk that the patient will have speech and swallowing difficulty. Patients passing the swallowing screen can start nutrition early, but reassessment of swallowing is recommended because symptoms may worsen or fluctuate with time.