What does the 'F' in the GFAST scale stand for?

The 'F' in the GFAST scale stands for "Facial droop." The GFAST scale is used in the context of assessing stroke symptoms, particularly in line with initiatives like the use of the FAST scale (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) to recognize signs of a stroke quickly.

"Facial droop" is specifically an indicator of a potential stroke, characterized by a noticeable drooping on one side of the face. This sign is critical because it can help determine the need for immediate medical intervention. Recognizing facial droop can lead to quicker response times and better outcomes for the patient.

In the context of the other options, they do not directly relate to the specific indicators assessed in the GFAST scale. While fear, fainting, and fatigue can be symptoms associated with various medical conditions, they are not part of the focused assessment aimed at detecting symptoms of a stroke within the GFAST framework.