Sudden death in nonhospitalized cardiac patients. An epidemiologic study with implications for intervention techniques

Abstract

Sudden death due to coronary heart disease in nonhospitalized patients in southeastern Montgomery County, Maryland, was investigated over one year to determine potential benefits from various intervention techniques. One hundred thirty-eight patients between the ages of 35 to 75 were studied. Fifty-seven percent had a history of heart disease. Premonitory symptoms were present in 65%; only 22% had chest pain. Three fourths died at home; 4% at work; 8% in the ambulance; and 8% in a hospital emergency room. Fifty (36%) died unwitnessed, but 15 of these had informed someone of acute symptoms before being left unattended. Previous symptomatic heart disease was associated with a more rapid demise. Based on the time of cardiac arrest and the call for emergency aid, no more than 22% could have been aided by mobile coronary care units.