Final answer:
Recognition of stroke symptoms by the patient is a factor that can delay stroke intervention, as it may lead to delays in seeking treatment. When symptoms are recognized promptly, the administration of thrombolytic agents like tPA within a timely manner is crucial for a better patient outcome.
Step-by-step explanation:
The factor that has been shown to delay stroke intervention is D) Recognition of stroke symptoms by the patient. When a patient fails to recognize the symptoms of a stroke, this can result in delays in seeking medical attention and, consequently, receiving treatment such as the administration of thrombolytic agents. One such thrombolytic agent is tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which needs to be administered within a narrow time frame after the onset of an ischemic stroke. Timely intervention is critical because as time passes, more brain tissue can suffer irreversible damage. The use of the FAST mnemonic assists in the speedy recognition of stroke symptoms, which include droopy Face, Arm weakness, Slurred Speech, and the importance of Time to call for emergency medical services.