ModulePublished

Beyond FAST: balance, vision, and last-known-well decisions

A practical emergency-recognition lesson that extends FAST into B.E. F.A.S.T., last-known-well timing, temporary symptoms, and what information to give responders.

FoundationsEveryoneIntro22 minGrade 7

Educational only

Educational only — not medical advice.

Get help now

If stroke symptoms suddenly appear, return, or worsen, call the local emergency number immediately and note the last known well time.

Key takeaways

  • Use FAST and B.E. F.A.S.T. to recognize common stroke warning signs
  • Explain last known well and why it affects emergency treatment decisions
  • Choose safe first actions when symptoms are subtle, severe, or temporary

Why this matters

Content outline is being prepared for review.

FAST is the core check

Content outline is being prepared for review.

Beyond FAST: balance and eyes

Content outline is being prepared for review.

Last known well

Content outline is being prepared for review.

What to do and what not to do

  • Call emergency services immediately when sudden stroke symptoms appear.
  • Note last known well and any medicines, especially blood thinners.
  • Keep the person safe and sitting or lying if weak or dizzy.
  • Do not drive the person yourself if emergency services are available.
  • Do not wait to see if symptoms return after they disappear.

In practice

Content outline is being prepared for review.

Common misconceptions

Content outline is being prepared for review.

Key takeaways

  • FAST checks face, arm, speech, and time; B.E. F.A.S.T. adds balance and eyes.
  • Any sudden stroke warning sign is enough to call emergency services.
  • Last known well means last confirmed normal baseline.
  • Temporary symptoms still require urgent evaluation.

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 3 answered

Question 1

1. A person wakes from a nap at 3 p.m. with slurred speech. They were last seen normal at noon. What is last known well?

Question 2

2. Which sudden symptoms can fit B.E. F.A.S.T.? Select all that apply.

Question 3

3. Put the safest first response in order.

References

  1. Tier 1American Stroke Association2024
    Stroke Symptoms
  2. Tier 1American Stroke Association2024
    TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
  3. Tier 1American Heart Association / American Stroke Association2019
    2019 AHA/ASA Acute Ischemic Stroke Guideline Update