Which of the following is a treatment for a stroke?

Oxygen therapy is utilized as a treatment for a stroke primarily because it helps to ensure that the brain receives adequate oxygen, which is critical in preventing further damage to brain tissue. During a stroke, blood flow to certain parts of the brain is impaired, often leading to a shortage of oxygen and nutrients that are essential for brain function. Administering oxygen can assist in improving the overall oxygenation of the blood, thereby enhancing the chances of recovery and reducing the risk of complications.

While monitoring blood pressure readings is important in managing a patient with a stroke, as changes in blood pressure can indicate the severity of the event or guide treatment, it is not a treatment itself. Warm compresses may provide comfort or help with specific symptoms, but they do not treat a stroke. Physical therapy can play a critical role in stroke recovery after the initial treatment phase, helping restore movement and function, but it is not an immediate treatment for a stroke event itself. Thus, oxygen therapy directly addresses the immediate physiological needs of a stroke patient by ensuring adequate oxygen supply to the brain.