⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.
EM-009
Stroke
Sudden neurological changes may indicate a serious emergency — note time and escalate urgently.
What should I do first?
- Recognize sudden neurological changes as potentially serious
- Note the time symptoms were first noticed when possible
- Seek urgent professional medical assistance
- Keep the person safe and monitor condition
- Do not delay assistance while attempting to confirm a cause onboard
What this may look like
- Sudden facial weakness or drooping
- Sudden arm weakness or loss of coordination
- Sudden speech difficulty or confusion
- Sudden severe headache or altered responsiveness in some cases
What should I check?
- Face, arm, and speech changes
- Responsiveness and breathing
- Time symptoms began
- Change in condition over time
What should I avoid?
- Delaying urgent medical assistance
- Giving food or drink if swallowing may be unsafe
- Claiming a definitive cause onboard
When should I get medical assistance?
- Urgently for sudden neurological symptoms
- Contact your vessel's designated medical assistance/TMAS service according to vessel procedures
- Follow your vessel's emergency procedures
What information should I prepare for TMAS / medical assistance?
- Time symptoms were first noticed
- Description of neurological changes
- Current responsiveness and associated symptoms
- Known medical history if available
- Vessel position and communications details required by procedure
Related symptoms
Important safety note
- Recognition prompts are not a confirmation of cause
- Urgent professional assessment is required
⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.
MEDDECK
Before you continue
⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.