A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is an acute episode of temporary neurologic dysfunction that typically lasts less than an hour; results from focal cerebral, spinal cord, or retinal ischemia; and is not associated with acute tissue infarction. In people who have a TIA, the incidence of subsequent stroke is as high as 11% over the next 7 days and 24-29% over the following 5 years.

Signs and symptoms
A TIA may last only minutes, and symptoms often resolve before the patient presents to a clinician. Thus, historical questions should be addressed not just to the patient but also to family members, witnesses, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel regarding changes in any of the following:
Behavior
Speech
Gait
Memory
Movement

Initial vital signs should include the following:
Temperature
Blood pressure
Heart rate and rhythm
Respiratory rate and pattern
Oxygen saturation

The examiner should assess the patient's overall health and appearance, making an assessment of the following:
Attentiveness
Ability to interact with the examiner
Language and memory skills
Overall hydration status
Development