Stroke in the workplace: How first aiders are trained to respond

Strokes usually happen because of an interruption to the blood supply to the brain, which may be caused by a bleed in the brain or a blockage in the blood supply getting to part of the brain. This damages part of the brain, which can affect a person’s appearance, bodily functions, speech and sight. This brain damage affects control of the muscles, resulting in facial or limb weakness. Usually, only one side of the body is affected.

If someone is having a stroke, they may appear confused and they may not be able to express themselves effectively. They are likely to be feeling scared and quite vulnerable, so empathy and compassion are important, even if you think they don’t understand what you are saying.

How our training prepares first aiders to help someone having a stroke in the workplace

Our course learners will discover how to recognise the signs of a stroke and the first aid steps to help someone who may be having a stroke through learner led, hands-on practical exercises along with engaging video presentations. For example, when learning about stroke, course learners may work in small groups to discuss what they already remember about the well-known FAST publicity campaigns. They will support one another to learn the complete set of checks required to help someone who may be having a stroke, along with referring to the first aid manual to check their recollection. This may be augmented with a tactful scenario re-enactment where learners will re-enforce the key learning messages about recognising a stroke and getting emergency medical assistance quickly.

In what workplace situations or environments may strokes occur?

Anyone can have a stroke, at any age, and in any work environment. Many common medical conditions can also increase the chances of someone having a stroke including:

• previous stroke or transient ischemic attack
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• heart disease
• diabetes
• obesity
• sickle cell disease.

What to do if someone has a stroke in the workplace

Around one in four strokes occur in people of working age. Our workplace guidance feature provides information on what a stroke is, the most common workplace settings where a stroke might occur and offers advice on how to assist and prepare for a colleague experiencing a stroke in your workplace.

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, use the FAST test.

1. Face

• Is there weakness on one side of their face?

2. Arms

• Can they raise both arms evenly?

3. Speech

• Is their speech easily understood?

4. Time

• Time to call 999.

How can you be prepared for someone having a stroke in the workplace?

Acting quickly is critical if you suspect someone is having a stroke - the sooner you act and get help the better the outcome for the person. So, it’s important that you have people in your team who have the skills and confidence to act in a first aid emergency.

Our 3-day First Aid at Work course and 2-day First Aid at Work Requalification course, feature training on how to help someone who is having a stroke.