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.