What tool helps EMS differentiate between large vessel and non-large vessel occlusion stroke?

The Los Angeles motor scale is specifically designed to assist emergency medical services (EMS) in identifying different types of strokes, including distinguishing between large vessel occlusions (LVO) and non-large vessel occlusions. This scale assesses the patient's motor function, including arm and leg movements, and can help guide the EMS provider's decision-making process regarding the urgency and type of treatment needed for the patient.

By evaluating motor functions, the Los Angeles motor scale provides critical information about the severity and potentially the location of the stroke. Large vessel occlusions often present with more significant neurological deficits, making this scale particularly useful for rapid assessment in the pre-hospital setting. Identifying an LVO quickly can be vital for treatment options, such as eligibility for thrombectomy in the case of largemouth occlusions, making this tool essential for timely and appropriate care.

In contrast, the other options like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and the Adverse Outcome Scale serve different purposes and are not primarily focused on differentiating between large vessel and non-large vessel occlusions in the acute setting. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment is more oriented toward evaluating cognitive function, while the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale is a more comprehensive stroke assessment tool rather than one focused