What does CVA stand for in medical terminology?

In medical terminology, CVA stands for Cerebral Vascular Accident. This term is commonly used to describe what is popularly known as a stroke, which occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). Understanding this term is crucial, as a CVA can lead to significant neurological impairments and requires immediate medical evaluation and intervention.

The context around this term is important in the medical field because it emphasizes the urgency of treatment and the need for quick assessment to minimize long-term damage. This is why health professionals and first responders prioritize recognizing the signs and symptoms of a CVA. Other options relate to different medical conditions or assessments, but they do not represent the standard and widely accepted definition of the acronym CVA in medical practice.