Acute Arm Weakness in a 45-Year-Old: Comprehensive Neurology Case Study | Ischemic Stroke DDx, SOAP Note, & Management Guide

Master acute neurological assessment and stroke management with this detailed clinical case study focused on a 45-year-old patient presenting with acute right arm weakness. Designed for medical, nursing, PA, and NP students, this comprehensive walkthrough covers everything from focused history-taking and exam techniques to imaging interpretation, differential diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment planning. What’s Included in This Complete Case Analysis: Patient Presentation Overview – Chief complaint, demographics, onset, and clinical setting Focused History & Key Questions – Systematic approach to onset, associated symptoms, PMH, medications, and risk factors Step-by-Step Physical & Neurological Exam – Motor/sensory grading, reflex testing, coordination, and cranial nerve assessment Key Clinical Findings – Differentiating between stroke, TIA, radiculopathy, and other mimics Diagnostic Tests & Imaging – CT, MRI, CTA, carotid ultrasound, echocardiogram, and essential labs Differential Diagnosis Table – Compare ischemic stroke, TIA, hemorrhagic stroke, cervical radiculopathy, MS, and functional disorders Final Diagnosis & Rationale – Clinical reasoning leading to left MCA ischemic stroke SOAP Note Template – Ready-to-use documentation example Acute & Long-Term Management Plan – tPA/thrombectomy criteria, antiplatelet therapy, BP/statin management, rehab referral Follow-Up & Monitoring Schedule – Outpatient neurology visits, imaging reviews, lifestyle counseling Why This Case Study Is Essential for Your Training: Builds clinical reasoning skills for acute neurological presentations Provides a clear diagnostic pathway from presentation to treatment Prepares you for neurology rotations, shelf exams, and USMLE Step 2 Includes real-world templates for SOAP notes and care plans Enhances confidence in stroke recognition and emergency management Ideal For: Medical students and residents Nursing students (RN, NP) specializing in neuro or emergency care Physician Assistant programs Neurology and emergency medicine rotation prep Exam preparation (NCLEX, USMLE, PANCE) Equip yourself to confidently assess, diagnose, and manage acute stroke presentations. Get your copy today and advance your neurology clinical skills!