What should you do if someone is responsive but not fully awake and has symptoms of stroke?

When someone is responsive but not fully awake and exhibits symptoms of a stroke, placing them in the recovery position is crucial. This position helps maintain an open airway and prevents aspiration if the person loses consciousness or begins to vomit. It minimizes the risk of choking and allows for proper respiratory function, which is vital in any medical emergency, especially with a stroke.

Monitoring the individual while they are in the recovery position is also important, as it allows you to observe their condition and be ready to provide further assistance, such as starting CPR if they become unresponsive. Keeping the person safe and stable until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive is the priority.

The other options are not advisable in this scenario. Making the person eat could pose a choking risk, as their level of consciousness may impact their ability to swallow safely. Leaving them sitting up does not provide the same airway protection as the recovery position and does not effectively manage the risk of choking. Shaking someone to wake them can be harmful and may exacerbate their condition, especially if they are experiencing neurological issues related to a stroke.