Which of the following is part of the primary assessment for a patient suspected of having an acute stroke?

Initiating cardiac monitoring is a crucial component of the primary assessment for a patient suspected of having an acute stroke. This step is essential because patients presenting with stroke symptoms may also have underlying cardiac issues that can complicate their condition. Cardiac monitoring allows healthcare providers to observe the patient's heart rhythm, rate, and any potential arrhythmias that might arise as a result of the stroke or its complications.

Monitoring the heart can also provide vital information on the patient's overall stability and assist in guiding further treatment. For example, if there are signs of acute coronary syndrome or arrhythmias, immediate interventions may be needed, which could impact the management of the stroke.

Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not pertain to the immediate priorities established during the primary assessment of a stroke patient. Administering aspirin, although it can be beneficial in some cases—specifically for thrombotic strokes—is inappropriate in the acute setting without confirming the type of stroke, as it can exacerbate bleeding in hemorrhagic strokes. Performing a complete blood count and conducting a chest radiograph, while potentially useful after stabilization, are not immediate priorities that help to assess or treat the patient in the early phase of a stroke assessment.