In the FAST stroke assessment, what does the 'A' stand for?

• A. Arm weakness
• B. Slurred speech
• C. Anxious behavior
• D. Aching sensation

Answer: (A)

The key idea is to quickly recognize a possible stroke by looking for a specific set of signs, with Arm weakness being the second sign that FAST checks for. Arm weakness means there may be a sudden inability to lift or control one arm, often causing it to drift downward when the person tries to hold both arms straight out in front.

To test it briefly, ask the person to extend both arms forward with palms facing up and eyes closed. If one arm drifts downward or cannot be held up, that indicates weakness on one side of the body, which points to this sign of stroke. This is why the A in FAST is Arm weakness—the indicator is a unilateral motor deficit affecting the arm.

Note that other signs in FAST address different aspects: facial drooping and speech difficulties. Anxious behavior or an aching sensation aren’t the specific rapid stroke indicators used in this mnemonic, so they don’t fit as the A component. When any FAST sign is observed, it’s time to seek urgent medical help immediately.