Which of the following is a major question to ask a suspected stroke patient?

Asking a suspected stroke patient when they last saw the patient normal is a crucial question because it helps determine the onset of symptoms, which is vital in stroke management. Time plays a critical role in the treatment of stroke; the sooner a patient receives appropriate care, the better the potential outcomes. This information can guide medical personnel in assessing the patient's condition and making decisions regarding interventions such as the administration of thrombolytics, which are most effective within a specific time window from the onset of symptoms.

In contrast, while knowing when the patient last ate can provide some context for overall health and nutritional status, it is not directly linked to the immediacy of stroke treatment. Questions about having a cold or allergies may only be relevant for a broader health assessment but do not provide the necessary information about the stroke and its timing. Therefore, focusing on when the patient last appeared normal is the most pertinent inquiry in this scenario.