In the case of a patient with sudden onset of aphasia and left-sided weakness, what is the next appropriate action?

In the scenario of a patient presenting with sudden onset of aphasia and left-sided weakness, the immediate and most appropriate action is to activate the code stroke protocol. This is essential because the combination of symptoms suggests a possible stroke, which is a medical emergency requiring prompt evaluation and treatment.

Activating the code stroke protocol ensures that the patient receives timely neuroimaging and assessment by a specialized team, which is critical in stroke management. Time is a crucial factor in minimizing neurological damage, and swift action is typically necessary to determine if thrombolytic therapy or other interventions are appropriate.

While notifying the family, performing CPR, or conducting a complete physical assessment might be important at various points in patient care, they do not address the urgency of potential stroke symptoms effectively. For instance, CPR would not be warranted unless the patient is in respiratory or cardiac arrest, and a complete physical assessment would typically follow initial stabilization or activation of emergency protocols. Therefore, prioritizing stroke protocol activation is the most effective response in this acute situation.