ModuleDraftEmergency

Persona: Radiology/CT/MRI teams — stroke imaging workflow + time-critical communication

Imaging-team module: why speed matters, common stroke imaging sequences (NCCT/CTA/CTP/MRI concepts), and critical result communication to stroke teams.

ClinicianClinicianIntermediate20 minClinical (pro)

Educational only

Educational only — imaging protocols and communication pathways are institution-specific.

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If acute stroke is suspected: activate local stroke alert/emergency response immediately and prioritize time-critical imaging/communication per protocol. Document last known well time and communicate critical findings without delay.

Key takeaways

  • Explain why imaging turnaround is time-critical in stroke
  • Describe high-level roles of NCCT/CTA/perfusion/MRI
  • Identify critical findings requiring immediate communication
  • Use a structured communication handoff

Why time matters

  • Eligibility windows
  • Workflow dependencies

High-level imaging roles

  • NCCT: rule out hemorrhage
  • CTA: LVO
  • Perfusion: tissue at risk
  • MRI: DWI/FLAIR context

Critical findings to escalate

  • Hemorrhage
  • Large vessel occlusion
  • Major mass effect/hydrocephalus

Communication template

  • What
  • Where
  • How urgent
  • Who was notified
  • Time

Practice check

What you’ll practice

These questions are untimed. After you answer all of them, you’ll see your score and a clear next lesson or reference step.

0 of 2 answered

Question 1

1. NCCT in acute stroke is primarily used to…

Question 2

2. Large vessel occlusion identification often involves CTA.

References

  1. Tier 1
    AHA/ASA 2026 AIS Guideline
  2. Tier 1
    AHA/ASA AIS Guideline 2019 Update