Quality of life and prognosis among survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
OBJECTIVE
We reviewed the topic of quality of life and prognosis of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors, focusing on more recent developments.


RESULTS
In 2003 to 2004, published experiences from Canada, the United States, and Europe indicate that the quality of life among out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors is acceptable and that prognosis may be improving over time. However, a minority of survivors has substantial neurologic impairment that adversely affects the quality of life and prognosis. Recent investigations indicate that bystander CPR, early defibrillation by nontraditional first responders, and active induction of hypothermia offer potential means to improve functional outcomes that may translate into better quality of life and prognosis. Acute treatment of the underlying etiology and effective secondary prevention also can benefit the out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivor, although only a portion who could benefit appear to receive these therapies.


CONCLUSIONS
The optimal strategy for improving long-term outcomes requires a multifaceted, integrative approach that begins with prehospital care and extends to secondary prevention.
Rea
Thomas D
TD
Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA. rea123@u.washington.edu
Paredes
Valentine L
VL
D016887:Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation; D003422:Critical Care; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D011379:Prognosis; D011788:Quality of Life; D018434:Sickness Impact Profile; D017741:Survivors