In the FAST stroke check, what do you ask the person to do for the F?

Smile, and watch for one side of the face drooping.

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  1. Say their full name
  2. Touch their nose
  3. Smile ✔

Why: F is for Face. Ask the person to smile; a droop on one side can mean stroke. Call for help as soon as any sign appears.

Huh, didn't know that: While waiting, do not give a stroke victim anything to eat or drink.

The dad joke
Why did the doctor carry a stopwatch? Because with a stroke, time is everything.
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References

Answer: Smile. F is for Face. Ask the person to smile; a droop on one side can mean stroke. Call for help as soon as any sign appears.

  1. First Aid merit badge pamphlet filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Merit_Badge_ReqandRes/Pamphlets/First%20Aid.pdf
    F = Face. Ask the person to smile. Watch for weakness on one side of the face
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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