Final answer:
In the absence of a working CT scanner, redirection to a facility with the required imaging capabilities is necessary to accurately determine the stroke type and administer the appropriate treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Handling a Potential Acute Stroke with a Non-Functioning CT Scanner
In a situation where an EMS team is en route with a patient who may be having an acute stroke and the hospital CT scanner is not working, the most appropriate action is A) Redirect to a facility with a working CT scanner. Quick access to imaging, such as a CT scan, is critical for determining the type of stroke and the appropriate course of treatment. If the stroke is ischemic, administration of a thrombolytic agent could be crucial, but it is imperative to first ensure that the patient isn't experiencing a hemorrhagic stroke, which thrombolytic therapy could worsen. Without a CT scan, differentiation is not safely possible. Therefore, redirecting to a facility with appropriate imaging capability is vital for the best patient care outcomes.
Rapid assessment of neurological function is fundamental in emergency situations to determine the right intervention and potentially limit damage to the brain. This is why the FAST mnemonic (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) is used to recognize and respond quickly to stroke symptoms. Since the recovery from a stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is heavily dependent on the speed of treatment, immediate and accurate diagnosis is essential to guide the subsequent treatment.