Final answer:
Headache is more likely to occur in hemorrhagic stroke compared to ischemic stroke, due to the pressure caused by bleeding in the brain. Quick identification and treatment of the stroke type are crucial for patient outcome.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should be aware that while some hemorrhagic strokes are clinically indistinguishable from ischemic strokes, headache is more likely to occur in hemorrhagic stroke than ischemic stroke. A hemorrhagic stroke involves bleeding into the brain because of a damaged blood vessel, causing physical pressure on the brain and potentially leading to a severe headache. The symptoms of a stroke usually occur suddenly, but in the case of hemorrhagic strokes, the accumulation of blood and additional fluid in the region, known as edema, can worsen the pressure and pain.
It is crucial to identify the type of stroke promptly as the treatment for ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes can differ significantly. Although hemorrhagic strokes are less common, representing about 10 percent of strokes, they are more likely to be fatal. Early intervention can be critical for survival and recovery, thus recognizing symptoms like headaches in the context of stroke can have important implications for treatment and prognosis.