North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Prepare for the North Carolina EMT State Exam with interactive quizzes and comprehensive explanations. Master your skills and gain confidence by reviewing key topics before test day!

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What type of stroke accounts for about 80% of all strokes?

Hemorrhagic stroke
Ischemic stroke
Transient ischemic attack
Embolic stroke

The correct answer is: Ischemic stroke

Ischemic strokes are the most prevalent type of stroke, accounting for approximately 80% of all stroke cases. This type occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, typically by a blood clot. The blockage can impede blood flow to brain tissue, resulting in cell damage or death due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Understanding ischemic strokes is crucial because they can be subdivided into two main categories: thrombotic strokes, which are caused by clots that form in arteries supplying blood to the brain, and embolic strokes, which occur when a blood clot forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain. This awareness allows healthcare providers to devise appropriate treatment plans targeting the type of obstruction. In contrast, hemorrhagic strokes, while serious, involve bleeding within the brain or its surrounding tissues and are less common. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) serve as warning signs of a potential future stroke, as they are temporary episodes of stroke-like symptoms that resolve within 24 hours. Embolic strokes are also a subset of ischemic strokes and represent a specific cause related to moving clots. However, as a collective group, ischemic strokes remain predominant among stroke diagnoses.