Can EMS blood/Accucheck be used for the stroke panel?

Using the EMS blood/Accucheck for the stroke panel is considered acceptable if the sample is properly labeled and collected in a timely manner. This is based on the understanding that rapid assessment of blood glucose levels is crucial in stroke management, as hypo- or hyperglycemia can mimic or exacerbate stroke symptoms.

Timeliness is pivotal; delays in obtaining glucose readings could lead to mismanagement of a patient who is experiencing symptoms of an acute stroke. Accurate labeling ensures that the results are correctly associated with the right patient, thereby preventing potential medical errors.

Overall, the emphasis on timely and labeled testing aligns with best practices in emergency medicine, particularly in acute stroke scenarios where every minute counts for patient outcomes.