Diagnosis and Initial Emergency Department Management of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

Atraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage represents a small proportion of strokes, but is a true medical emergency that results in significant morbidity and mortality. Making the diagnosis can be challenging and misdiagnosis can result in devastating consequences. There are several time-dependent diagnostic and management considerations for emergency physicians and other frontline providers. This article reviews the most up-to-date literature on the diagnostic workup of subarachnoid hemorrhage, avoiding misdiagnosis, and initial emergency department management recommendations.