CTAS

Patients experiencing stroke symptoms within a 6-hour window or with persistent symptoms within a 24-hour window should be classified as CTAS level 2 from a practical standpoint. While the current Ontario CTAS guidelines incorporate a CTAS level 3 modifier, this classification would only be considered if the patient exhibits no further symptoms and falls outside the specified time frame. It is frequently challenging to identify the initial signs of a stroke, and considering the potential consequences of time on patient outcomes, it is best to adopt a cautious approach when any uncertainty exists.