Stroke

Los Angeles Prehospital Stroke Screen (LAPSS) [1] [8]

This stroke screen is a bit more complex than the Cincinnati stroke scale and relies on risk factors, history, blood glucose and symptoms.

LAPSS Screening Criteria:

  • Age >45 years
  • No prior history of a seizure or epilepsy
  • Symptoms must last <24 hours
  • Baseline patient function cannot include being bedridden or wheelchair bound
  • Blood glucose between 60–400 mg/dL
  • Obvious asymmetry of any 3 areas
    • Smile or grimace
    • Grip
    • Arm strength (drift)

The above criteria signify the possibility of a stroke. A qualifying patient should be rapidly transported to the closest stroke-capable facility.

The LAPSS has shown a 91% sensitivity and a 97% specificity compared to the final hospital diagnosis. [30]