Which of the following best describes the first sign of a stroke in the FAST acronym?

The FAST acronym is a mnemonic used to help identify the signs of a stroke quickly and effectively. The "F" in FAST stands for "Face drooping," which is indeed recognized as one of the first signs of a stroke. When evaluating someone for a potential stroke, observing their facial symmetry is crucial; one side of the face may droop or feel numb while the other side remains unaffected. This characteristic is a vital indication of a stroke, as it typically results from a disruption in blood flow to the areas of the brain responsible for facial control.

Recognizing face drooping can prompt immediate action, as it signals the need for urgent medical evaluation. The other aspects of the acronym — arm weakness, speech difficulties, and time to call emergency services — are important but are not the initial sign that is most visually apparent when assessing stroke symptoms. The emphasis on the drooping of the face serves as a quick, easy-to-spot indicator that helps bystanders and potential caregivers act swiftly in case of a stroke emergency.