Final answer:
Thrombolytic agents, such as tPA alteplase, are used as a first intervention for thrombotic strokes. It is important to administer tPA within 3 hours for the best prognosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thrombolytic agents, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) alteplase, are used as a first intervention for someone who has suffered a thrombotic stroke. tPA works by activating plasminogen, which then breaks down the blood clot causing the stroke.
It is important for the tPA alteplase to be administered within 3 hours following the stroke for the best prognosis. However, it is crucial to determine the cause of the stroke before using tPA, as some strokes are caused by hemorrhage and not by thrombi.