Florida 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) Practice Exam

Is a Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) also referred to as hemorrhaging?

1. Yes, both terms are synonymous

2. No, they refer to different medical conditions

3. Yes, but only in specific contexts

4. No, hemorrhaging is a symptom

The correct answer is: No, they refer to different medical conditions

A Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, refers to a sudden disruption in blood flow to the brain, which can occur due to either a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). While hemorrhaging can occur as a result of a CVA when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, the terms are not synonymous. Hemorrhaging refers specifically to the loss of blood, which may be a consequence of a hemorrhagic stroke but does not cover the broader spectrum of conditions that can cause a CVA. Understanding this distinction is critical for emergency responders and telecommunicators, as it helps accurately assess the situation and respond appropriately during emergencies. Recognizing that a CVA encompasses both ischemic and hemorrhagic events allows for better communication about the nature of the medical emergency at hand.