ModulePublished

Recognizing stroke and acting fast (FAST and beyond)

Most people can learn to spot a stroke in seconds with one word: FAST. Recognising it quickly — and calling for help immediately — is the single most important thing a bystander can do, because the fastest treatments only work within a few hours.

FoundationsEveryoneIntro7 minGrade 6

Educational only

Educational only — not medical advice.

Get help now

If you think someone is having a stroke, call your local emergency number now. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.

Key takeaways

  • Run the FAST check and name what each letter tests
  • Recognise stroke signs beyond FAST, including sudden balance and vision loss
  • Define 'last known well' and give the correct next action

Why this matters

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FAST — the core signs

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Beyond FAST (B.E. FAST)

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Last known well

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The right next action

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In practice

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Common misconceptions

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Key takeaways

  • FAST = Face droop, Arm weakness, Speech trouble, Time to call.
  • Any one sign is enough — act immediately.
  • B.E. FAST adds sudden Balance and Eye (vision) problems; also watch for sudden numbness, confusion, or severe headache.
  • Note “last known well” and call emergency services rather than driving.

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 6 answered

Question 1

1. You think someone is having a stroke. Put the bystander response in the best order.

Question 2

2. Match each letter of FAST to the check you perform.

Question 3

3. Someone wakes at 7am with weakness; they went to sleep completely normal at 11pm. What is their “last known well” time?

Question 4

4. Your neighbor is confused and can’t lift her right arm, and you don’t know when it began. What is the best action?

Question 5

5. Beyond the classic FAST signs, which sudden symptoms are also stroke emergencies? Select all that apply.

Question 6

6. If an ambulance might be slow, it’s better to drive a suspected stroke patient to the hospital yourself.

References

  1. Tier 1American Stroke Association2024
    Stroke Symptoms (F.A.S.T. / B.E. F.A.S.T.)
  2. Tier 1NINDS / National Institutes of Health2024
    Stroke Information Page