Life after cardiac arrest; a retrospective study.

AIM

We decided to evaluate the life situation of the survivors after out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

METHOD

CPR survivors who were 75 years or younger at the time and who were discharged alive from the hospital were identified consecutively. Average follow-up time was 25.5 months, and at follow-up 24% were deceased and 9% were lost. A questionnaire was completed by 93% and 71% were positive to an interview.

RESULTS

Cognitive functions were reduced as well as capacity to perform activities in daily living. This resulted in dependence on other persons for living (nursing homes) and a low return to work. Social isolation was a common complaint. The survivors also reported lower pain awareness than the reference population. As far as other aspects of health-related quality of life, this small group show many similarities with previously evaluated post-infarction patients.

CONCLUSION

Lower pain awareness should be taken into consideration when the CPR patients have ischemic heart disease. If possible, try to prevent social isolation.