What should be done if a child shows signs of a stroke during PALS evaluation?

In the context of a child showing signs of a stroke during a Pediatric Advanced Life Support evaluation, it is essential to recognize that time is a crucial factor in the management of stroke. When a stroke occurs, brain cells begin to die rapidly without proper blood supply; hence, prompt intervention is necessary to minimize damage and improve outcomes.

Initiating emergency services and ensuring rapid transport to a facility capable of managing pediatric strokes is critical. This allows healthcare professionals to perform advanced diagnostics and interventions that could include thrombolytic therapy or other specialized treatments essential for stroke management. The phrase "time is brain" emphasizes that the quicker the intervention happens, the more brain tissue can potentially be saved.

Monitoring for changes over time, starting CPR, and administering antipyretics are not appropriate immediate responses to a suspected stroke. Monitoring might delay necessary treatment, CPR is indicated in cases of cardiac arrest rather than stroke, and antipyretics would not address the underlying issue of acute neurological event management. Thus, the urgency of mobilizing emergency services and securing rapid transport leads to the selection of this option as the best course of action.