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 survi vors 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% wer e lost. A questionnaire was completed by 93% and 71% were positive to an interview. Results: Cognitive functions were reduced as well as cap acity to perform activities in daily living. This resulted in dependen ce on other persons for living (nursing homes) and a low return to wor k. Social isolation was a common complaint. The survivors also reporte d 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. Concl usion: Lower pain awareness should be taken into consideration when th e CPR patients have ischemic heart disease. If possible, try to preven t social isolation.