A patient has facial drooping, left side paralysis, and slurred speech.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:

The patient's symptoms are consistent with astroke (CVA). Proper prehospital care focuses on maintaining airway, breathing, circulation, and protecting the affected limbs.Positioning the patient with head elevated(not supine) reduces intracranial pressure and aspiration risk.

Protecting theparalyzed side (e.g., left arm)from injury during transport is critical. EMS should still communicate with the patient — even if speech is impaired — and perform a stroke assessment using tools likeCincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS)orFAST.