Stroke management is a critical topic for nurses, especially when preparing for nursing school exams and the Next Gen NCLEX. This cheat sheet highlights essential knowledge about the different types of strokes—ischemic, hemorrhagic, and embolic—and their pathophysiology and treatments, which are vital for quick recognition and intervention to improve patient outcomes. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain, causing oxygen deprivation and subsequent brain tissue damage. Hemorrhagic strokes result from ruptured blood vessels leading to bleeding within the brain, increasing intracranial pressure and causing further injury. Embolic strokes are caused by clots traveling to cerebral vessels from other body parts. Recognizing warning signs promptly is paramount. Sudden onset of neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, or severe headache should raise immediate concern. Differentiating stroke types is essential because treatment approaches differ significantly. A critical step in emergency assessment is to check glucose levels to rule out hypoglycemia, which can mimic stroke symptoms. Treatment for ischemic strokes often focuses on rapid restoration of blood flow, including timely administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) within 60 minutes of hospital arrival, antithrombotic therapy to prevent clot formation, and potentially thrombectomy procedures for clot removal. For hemorrhagic strokes, controlling bleeding and managing elevated intracranial pressure are priorities. Permissive hypertension can be part of ischemic stroke management to ensure cerebral perfusion, while procedures such as clipping or coiling stabilize aneurysms and interventional radiology is often employed. Craniotomy and external ventricular drainage (EVD) may be required to relieve pressure. Understanding these critical interventions and pathophysiological mechanisms enhances nursing practice and exam preparation by equipping future nurses with the skills to act decisively during a stroke emergency. This knowledge supports NCLEX success by aligning clinical understanding with evidence-based care standards and practical nursing interventions essential for patient survival and recovery.