Within what time frame should patients with severe neurologic symptoms be transported to designated stroke centers?

The best practice for transporting patients with severe neurologic symptoms to designated stroke centers emphasizes the critical importance of time in the management of stroke. The optimal window for interventions, such as thrombolysis, is typically within 4.5 hours from the onset of symptoms. This window is established based on clinical evidence that suggests the effectiveness of treatment diminishes significantly beyond this time frame.

Transporting patients within 2 hours of symptom onset allows for a more immediate assessment and intervention upon arrival at a stroke center, thereby maximizing the potential for recovery and minimizing the risk of long-term disability. The shorter the time from symptom onset to treatment, the better the outcomes for the patient.

In contrast, options indicating a longer time frame, such as 24 hours or even extending to 4 hours without the critical two-hour window, do not align with current clinical guidelines that stress rapid transport and treatment. Waiting longer decreases the likelihood of effective treatment options being available, as brain tissue can suffer irreversible damage during a prolonged delay. Thus, the recommendation to transport within 2 hours is crucial for effective intervention.