List the main monitoring priorities in the first 24 hours after acute stroke treatment.

• A. Neurological status (NIHSS), vital signs, oxygenation, glucose levels, BP management, neuroimaging as indicated, watch for hemorrhagic transformation and edema
• B. Only vital signs
• C. Only imaging
• D. Discontinue monitoring after 12 hours

Answer: (A)

The focus after acute stroke treatment is to detect deterioration early and prevent secondary brain injury by watching brain function, systemic stability, and potential treatment-related complications. Neurological status should be checked frequently, often using the NIH Stroke Scale, to quantify deficits and identify any new or worsening signs. Vital signs, oxygenation, and glucose levels are monitored continuously because instability, hypoxia, or abnormal glucose can worsen brain injury and affect recovery. Blood pressure management is essential to balance maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion with minimizing the risk of bleeding, with targets guided by whether reperfusion therapy was used. Imaging is performed as indicated to catch complications such as hemorrhagic transformation or edema and to assess infarct evolution, rather than on a rigid schedule. Finally, be vigilant for hemorrhagic transformation and edema, especially after thrombolysis or in large strokes, since these changes can rapidly impact function and require prompt intervention.