Final answer:
TPA is specifically administered for an ischemic stroke, aiming to dissolve the blood clot causing the blockage in the arteries of the brain. It is not used for hemorrhagic strokes, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or subarachnoid hemorrhages where its use could be harmful or unnecessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
TPA, or tissue plasminogen activator, is a medication given to treat a specific type of stroke known as an ischemic stroke. An ischemic stroke occurs when there is a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the brain, often due to a blood clot. The treatment works by dissolving the clot and restoring blood flow to the affected region of the brain. Administering TPA can prevent permanent brain damage if given within a few hours of the onset of symptoms. TPA is not used for hemorrhagic strokes, which are caused by bleeding in the brain, as it could potentially worsen the bleeding. It is also not intended for transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), also known as mini-strokes, as the blockage in these cases is temporary and the symptoms resolve quickly without treatment. Similarly, TPA is not used for subarachnoid hemorrhages, which involve bleeding in the space surrounding the brain.