According to the American Heart Association, what is the critical goal time from ED arrival to CT brain scan for stroke patients?

The critical goal time from emergency department (ED) arrival to computed tomography (CT) brain scan for stroke patients is 25 minutes, according to the American Heart Association. This timeframe is essential because prompt imaging can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment, which are crucial in managing stroke cases effectively. The immediate assessment through CT helps determine whether a stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic, allowing for appropriate interventions to be initiated without delay.

Additionally, the 25-minute target aligns with the overarching objective of minimizing the time from symptom onset to treatment, known as "door-to-needle" time, which is vital for improving patient outcomes in strokes. By setting this goal, healthcare providers are encouraged to streamline processes and prioritize stroke care in the ED, ensuring that patients receive timely evaluations and treatments that can significantly reduce long-term disability and mortality rates associated with strokes.