A man and his wife are sitting in their pajamas in the living room when the man cries out. He attempts to rise from his chair, but he falls when he discovers the left side of his body has become...

A man and his wife are sitting in their pajamas in the living room when the man cries out. He attempts to rise from his chair, but he falls when he discovers the left side of his body has become paralyzed. The left side of his mouth and his left eye are drooping. What should his wife do?

1. Help him stand and walk to the car. She can drive him to the hospital, because it is only 3 miles away. He will receive care more immediately than if the wife calls an ambulance.

2. Sit with him for an hour to see if his condition resolves. If it worsens, she should transport him to the hospital.

3. Call 911 immediately. The emergency team will be able to assess him, give supportive care, and transport.

4. Assess the man's pulse and breathing. If he is in no immediate cardiac distress the wife can help the husband change into street clothes before driving him to the hospital.