For a patient who has recently had a stroke, what is your first concern?

• A. Current blood pressure
• B. Last dental cleaning
• C. Are they on anticoagulants?
• D. Current medication list

Answer: (C)

When managing a patient who has recently experienced a stroke, one of the primary considerations is whether or not they are on anticoagulants. This is crucial because anticoagulants can significantly influence the patient's risk for additional strokes or bleeding complications. Understanding their anticoagulant status allows the healthcare provider to make informed decisions regarding the management and treatment plan, particularly concerning the risk of hemorrhagic transformations or new ischemic events.

Additionally, the interaction between stroke management and anticoagulation, including timing for potential re-initiation of anticoagulants if appropriate, is vital in the immediate care of a stroke patient. This awareness directly impacts the safety and efficacy of further interventions and the patient's overall recovery trajectory.

While current blood pressure, last dental cleaning, and current medication list are also important aspects of patient management, the priority in the context of a recent stroke involves understanding anticoagulant use, as it poses immediate implications for treatment and risk assessment.