Final answer:
Before giving Activase to a client who had a stroke 2 hours ago, the nurse must first confirm the type of stroke and ensure it is not hemorrhagic. If confirmed as ischemic, rapid administration of thrombolytic therapy is critical within the therapeutic window to improve outcomes and reduce permanent damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse preparing to administer Activase to a patient who had symptoms of a stroke must initially confirm the type of stroke, as thrombolytic agents like Activase are contraindicated in hemorrhagic strokes. With symptoms present for only 2 hours, there is an urgency to act within the therapeutic window for thrombolytic therapy, which is typically within 3 to 4 hours from the onset of stroke symptoms.
Thrombolytic therapy, such as with Activase, is vital as it can rapidly dissolve the clot causing the ischemic stroke, potentially restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain. Ensuring rapid treatment can significantly improve the prognosis and reduce the risk of permanent brain damage. Before administration, however, essential steps such as verifying the patient's medical history, conducting necessary imaging to exclude hemorrhagic stroke, and assessing for contraindications to thrombolytic therapy must be taken.
Stroke identification using the FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) mnemonic can facilitate early recognition and intervention, crucial in mitigating the effects of stroke. Establishing a clear timeline of symptom onset is paramount in determining eligibility for thrombolytic therapy and influencing recovery outcomes.