In-hospital Cardiac Arrest Survival Research Articles

Lived experiences of surviving in-hospital cardiac arrest

Background Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors suffer from psychological distress and cognitive impairments. They experience existential insecurity and vulnerability and are striving to return to a life in which well-being and the meaning of life have partly changed. However, research highlighting the experiences of in-hospital cardiac arrest survivors is lacking. This means that evidence for postresuscitation care has largely been extrapolated from studies on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors, without considering potential group differences. Studies investigating survivors' experiences of an in-hospital cardiac arrest are therefore needed. Aim To illuminate meanings of people's lived experiences of surviving an in-hospital cardiac arrest. Design An explorative, phenomenological hermeneutic method to illuminate meanings of lived experiences. Method Participants were identified through the Swedish national register of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and recruited from two hospitals. A purposive sample of eight participants, 53-99 years old, who survived an in-hospital cardiac arrest 1-3 years earlier, was interviewed. Findings The survivors were striving to live in everyday life and striving for security. The struggle to reach a new identity meant an existence between restlessness and a peace of mind, searching for emotional well-being and bodily abilities. The search for existential wholeness meant a quest for understanding and explanation of the fragmented cardiac arrest event and its existential consequences. The transition from hospital to home meant a transition from care and protection to uncertainty and vulnerability with feelings of abandonment, which called for a search for security and belonging, away from isolation and loneliness. Conclusion Surviving an in-hospital cardiac arrest can be further understood by means of the concept of hospital-to-home transition. Following hospital discharge, patients felt vulnerable and abandoned when pending between denial and acceptance of the 'new' life. Hence, the healthcare system should play a significant role when it comes to facilitate cardiac arrest survivors' security during hospital-to-home transition.

Chest compression rates and pediatric in-hospital cardiac arrest survival outcomes

AimThe primary aim of this study was to evaluate the association between chest compression rates and 1) arterial blood pressure and 2) survival outcomes during pediatric in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). MethodsProspective observational study of children ≥37 weeks gestation and <19 years old who received CPR in an intensive care unit (ICU) as part of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Quality of CPR Study (PICqCPR) of the Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network (CPCCRN). Arterial blood pressure and compression rate were determined from manually extracted arterial line waveform data during the first 10 min of CPR. The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Modified Poisson regression models assessed the association between rate categories (80–<100, 100–120 [Guidelines], >120–140, >140) and outcomes. ResultsCompression rate data were available for 164 patients. More than half (98/164; 60%) were <1 year old. Return of circulation was achieved in 148/164 (90%); survival to hospital discharge in 77/164 (47%). Percentage of events with average rate within Guidelines was 32.9%. Compared to Guidelines, higher rate categories were associated with lower systolic blood pressures (>120–140, p = 0.010; >140, p = 0.077), but not survival. A rate between 80-<100 per minute was associated with a higher rate of survival to hospital discharge (aRR 1.92, CI95 1.13, 3.29, p = 0.017) and survival with favorable neurological outcome (aRR 2.12, CI95 1.09, 4.13, p = 0.027) compared to Guidelines. ConclusionNon-compliance with compression rate Guidelines was common in this multicenter cohort. Among ICU patients, slightly lower rates were associated with improved outcomes compared to Guidelines.

How Do Resuscitation Teams at Top-Performing Hospitals for In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Succeed? A Qualitative Study.

In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is common, and outcomes vary substantially across US hospitals, but reasons for these differences are largely unknown. We set out to better understand how top-performing hospitals organize their resuscitation teams to achieve high survival rates for IHCA. We calculated risk-standardized IHCA survival to discharge rates across American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines-Resuscitation registry hospitals between 2012 and 2014. We identified geographically and academically diverse hospitals in the top, middle, and bottom quartiles of survival for IHCA and performed a qualitative study that included site visits with in-depth interviews of clinical and administrative staff at 9 hospitals. With the use of thematic analysis, data were analyzed to identify salient themes of perceived performance by informants. Across 9 hospitals, we interviewed 158 individuals from multiple disciplines including physicians (17.1%), nurses (45.6%), other clinical staff (17.1%), and administration (20.3%). We identified 4 broad themes related to resuscitation teams: (1) team design, (2) team composition and roles, (3) communication and leadership during IHCA, and (4) training and education. Resuscitation teams at top-performing hospitals demonstrated the following features: dedicated or designated resuscitation teams; participation of diverse disciplines as team members during IHCA; clear roles and responsibilities of team members; better communication and leadership during IHCA; and in-depth mock codes. Resuscitation teams at hospitals with high IHCA survival differ from non-top-performing hospitals. Our findings suggest core elements of successful resuscitation teams that are associated with better outcomes and form the basis for future work to improve IHCA.

Abstract 223: Rapid Response Teams at Top-performing Hospitals for In-hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Qualitative Study

Background: Prior studies have shown that hospitals with exceptional survival for in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) also excel at preventing IHCA—a key function of rapid response team (RRT). However, little is known about how RRTs differ across sites. We used qualitative methods to evaluate organizational and contextual factors of RRTs that may be linked to hospital performance on IHCA survival. Methods: We selected 9 academically and geographically diverse hospitals in the AHA Get With The Guidelines Resuscitation registry based on risk standardized IHCA survival during 2012-2014 (top quartile: 5 hospitals; middle quartiles: 1 hospital; bottom quartile: 3 hospitals). During site visits, we conducted semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders regarding resuscitation care at their site. We conducted a directed content analysis focused on RRT roles and activities related to preventing IHCA. Results: A total of 158 interviews were conducted that included physicians (17.1%), nurses (45.6%), other clinical (17.1%), and administrative staff (20.3%). Differences in RRTs at top and bottom performing sites were noted in the following domains: team design and composition, engagement of RRT in surveillance of at-risk patients, empowerment of bedside nurses to activate RRT, and collaboration of RRT members with bedside nurses during and after a rapid response. Differences within each domain and representative quotes are included in the Table. Top performing hospitals tended to have RRTs staffed with members without other clinical responsibilities, often served as a resource for bedside nurses in preventing patient decline, and collaborated with them during and after a rapid response. Bedside nurses were empowered to activate RRTs based on their judgement and experience. In contrast, RRTs at bottom performing hospitals were staffed with members with competing clinical responsibilities, and were generally less engaged with bedside nurses. Moreover, nurses were concerned about potential consequences (e.g. fear of reprisal from physicians) in calling a rapid response. Conclusions: The design and implementation of RRTs differ markedly between top and bottom performing hospitals with regard to IHCA survival. Our findings provide unique insights into RRTs at hospitals with better IHCA outcomes.

Abstract 239: The Effect of an Interdisciplinary Simulation Training Program on Translational Outcomes for In-Hospital Cardiopulmonary Arrests

Purpose: High-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is the primary component influencing return of circulation (ROSC) and survival to hospital discharge, but few hospitals regularly track these metrics. Other studies have demonstrated significant improvements in survival after IHCA events following implementation of a dedicated code team training program. Therefore, we developed a unique curriculum for a Code Team Training (CTT) course, and evaluated its post-implementation effect on CPR quality and post-IHCA patient outcomes at our institution. Methods: CPR quality data was prospectively collected for quality improvement purposes once our institution had that capability, with 12-months pre-CTT and 21 months post-CTT. Pre-CTT data shaped the elements of the four-hour CTT course that included didactics, small group sessions, and high-fidelity simulation exercises. A total of 456 multi-professional code team members were trained in 22 courses. Data collection included CPR quality and translational outcomes for events where CPR was performed, except the ED. CodeNet® software was used for CPR quality measures, cardiac rhythm, defibrillation metrics, use of continuous waveform capnography, and pauses in compressions. Target metrics for CPR quality were based on 2015 AHA guidelines. Key translational outcomes measures included event location, ROSC, and survival to hospital discharge. Results: CPR quality was obtained from 140 of 230 (61%) in- and out-of-hospital pulseless adult cardiac arrest events over 33 months (50 [36%] before CTT and 90 [64%] following the first course). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of event location within the hospital nor initial event rhythm. A total of 116,908 chest compressions were evaluated. Median compressions in target rate improved from 32% before CTT to 49% after CTT (p&lt;0.05). When accounting for target rate and depth, the median compressions rate improved to 38% post-CTT compared to 31% pre-CTT (p&lt;0.05). While compression depth had a non-statistically significant decline (90.8% pre-CTT and 83.4% post-CTT), mean rate and median rate-in-target improved from 119.99 +/- 15.6 cpm and 32.4% pre-CTT to 113.7 +/- 16.1 cpm and 48.6% post-CTT (p&lt;0.05). The rate of ROSC improved from 60% (30 of 50) to 78% (70 of 90) after implementation of CTT (p=0.003), excluding IHCA in the ED. Index IHCA survival rate for our institution improved from 26% to 33% before and after CTT [p-value NS], which far surpasses the national average (23.8%). Conclusions: After the initiation of a CTT course that targets key code team member personnel, CPR quality significantly improved, which was associated with an increase in ROSC and a trend towards increased survival for in-hospital cardiac arrest patients.

Neurobehavioural outcomes in children after In-Hospital cardiac arrest

AimChildren who remain comatose after in-hospital cardiac arrest (IH-CA) resuscitation are at risk for poor neurological outcome. We report results of detailed neurobehavioural testing in paediatric IH-CA survivors, initially comatose after return of circulation, and enrolled in THAPCA-IH, a clinical trial that evaluated two targeted temperature management interventions (hypothermia, 33.0 °C or normothermia, 36.8 °C; NCT00880087). MethodsChildren, aged 2 days to <18 years, were enrolled in THAPCA-IH from 2009 to 2015; primary trial outcome (survival with favorable neurobehavioural outcome) did not differ between groups. Pre-IH-CA neurobehavioural functioning, measured with the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition (VABS-II) was evaluated soon after enrollment; this report includes only children with broadly normal pre-IH-CA scores (VABS-II composite scores ≥70; 269 enrolled). VABS-II was re-administered 3 and 12 months later. Cognitive testing was completed at 12 months. ResultsFollow-ups were obtained on 125 of 135 eligible one-year survivors. Seventy-seven percent (96/125) had VABS-II scores ≥70 at 12 months; cognitive composites were ≥2SD of mean in 59%. VABS-II composite, domain, and most subdomain scores declined between pre-IH-CA and 3-month, and pre-IH-CA and 12-month assessments (composite means declined about 1 SD at 3 and 12 months, p < 0.005); 3 and 12-month scores were strongly correlated (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). ConclusionsIn paediatric IH-CA survivors at high risk for unfavorable outcomes, the majority demonstrated significant declines in neurobehavioural functioning, across multiple functional domains, with similar functioning at 3 and 12 months. About three-quarters attained VABS-II functional performance composite scores within the broadly normal range.

Trends in Survival After In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest During Nights and Weekends

BackgroundSurvival after in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is lower during nights and weekends (off-hours) compared with daytime during weekdays (on-hours). As overall IHCA survival has improved over time, it remains unknown whether survival differences between on-hours and off-hours have changed. ObjectivesThis study sought to examine temporal trends in survival differences between on-hours and off-hours IHCA. MethodsWe identified 151,071 adults at 470 U.S. hospitals in the Get with the Guidelines–Resuscitation registry during 2000 to 2014. Using multivariable logistic regression with generalized estimating equations, we examined whether survival trends in IHCA differed during on-hours (Monday to Friday 7:00 am to 10:59 pm) versus off-hours (Monday to Friday 11:00 pm to 6:59 am, and Saturday to Sunday, all day). ResultsAmong 151,071 participants, 79,091 (52.4%) had an IHCA during off-hours. Risk-adjusted survival improved over time in both groups (on-hours: 16.0% in 2000, 25.2% in 2014; off-hours: 11.9% in 2000, 21.9% in 2014; p for trend <0.001 for both). However, there was no significant change in the survival difference over time between on-hours and off-hours, either on an absolute (p = 0.75) or a relative scale (p = 0.059). Acute resuscitation survival improved significantly in both groups (on-hours: 56.1% in 2000, 71% in 2014; off-hours: 46.9% in 2000, 68.2% in 2014; p for trend <0.001 for both) and the difference between on-hours and off-hours narrowed over time (p = 0.02 absolute scale, p < 0.001 relative scale). In contrast, although post-resuscitation survival also improved over time in both groups (p for trend < 0.001 for both), the absolute and relative difference persisted. ConclusionsDespite an overall improvement in survival, lower survival in IHCA during off-hours compared with on-hours persists.

Trends in co-morbidities and survival for in-hospital cardiac arrest –A Swedish cohort study

ObjectivesCo-morbidities affect survival after in-hospital cardiac arrests (IHCA). The risk population for IHCA, i.e. the hospitalised patients, have a doubled increase in co-morbidities over time. A similar increase in co-morbidities among IHCAs might explain the relatively poor survival ratios despite improved care. AimTo assess changes in the burden of baseline age-adjusted Charlson co-morbidity index (ACCI) scores among IHCAs as well as to assess its impact on survival in three time periods. Material and methodsAll patients ≥18 years suffering an IHCA at Karolinska University Hospital between 1st January 2007 and 31st December 2015 were included. Data regarding the IHCA, patient characteristics, ACCI and 30 day survival were obtained from electronic patient records. Parameters included in ACCI were assessed as ICD-10 codes in the medical file at admission to hospital. The median ACCI with interquartile range (IQR) was presented per year. ACCI was categorised into low 0–2points, moderate 3–5points, high 6–8 points and very high ≥9 points. Differences in survival between 2007 and 2009 and 2010–2012 as well as 2013–2015 were stratified per ACCI category and assessed with adjusted logistic regression models and presented as Odds Ratios with 95% Confidence Intervals (OR, 95% CI). Adjustments included hospital site, sex, first rhythm, ECG-surveillance, witnessed or not, and location of the IHCA. ResultsIn all, 1373 patients suffered an IHCA, of whom 376 (27%) survived at least 30 days. The ACCI remained almost constant over time at median 4, IQR 3–6. Patients with low or moderate ACCI more than doubled their survival in 2013–2015 compared to 2007–2009 (adjusted OR 2.61 95% CI1.38–4.94 and OR 1.87 95% CI 1.14–3.09 respectively). ConclusionThis cohort study illuminates an almost constant burden of co-morbidities over time among patients suffering an IHCA. Further, the study highlights that 30-day survival has almost doubled from 2007 to 2009 to 2013–2015 among those with low to moderate AccI.

Editor's Choice-Effects of targeted temperature management on mortality and neurological outcome: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review, and where applicable meta-analyses, examining the evidence underpinning the use of targeted temperature management following resuscitation from cardiac arrest. Multiple databases were searched for publications between January 2000-February 2016. Nine Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome questions were developed and meta-analyses were performed when appropriate. Reviewers extracted study data and performed quality assessments using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology, the Cochrane Risk Bias Tool, and the National Institute of Health Study Quality Assessment Tool. The primary outcomes for each Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome question were mortality and poor neurological outcome. Overall, low quality evidence demonstrated that targeted temperature management at 32-36°C, compared to no targeted temperature management, decreased mortality (risk ratio 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.61-0.92) and poor neurological outcome (risk ratio 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.60-0.88) amongst adult survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest with an initial shockable rhythm. Targeted temperature management use did not benefit survivors of in-hospital cardiac arrest nor out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors with a non-shockable rhythm. Moderate quality evidence demonstrated no benefit of pre-hospital targeted temperature management initiation. Low quality evidence showed no difference between endovascular versus surface cooling targeted temperature management systems, nor any benefit of adding feedback control to targeted temperature management systems. Low quality evidence suggested that targeted temperature management be maintained for 18-24 h. Low quality evidence supports the in-hospital initiation and maintenance of targeted temperature management at 32-36°C amongst adult survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest with an initial shockable rhythm for 18-24 h. The effects of targeted temperature management on other populations, the optimal rate and method of cooling and rewarming, and effects of fever require further study.

Ideal (i) CPR: Looking beyond shadows in a cave

Survival rates after cardiac arrest have shown minimal improvement in the last 60 years. However, in some forward-thinking cities and hospitals, out-of and in-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates exceed 20% and 40% respectively. These beacons of hope can enlighten us, providing a clearer vision of what it takes to provide Ideal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. To make progress in a field that has seemingly stagnated for too many decades, we must be open to new ideas and develop bundles of care that work in communities with varying EMS systems and various existing infrastructure to bring the best practices to the rest of the country.

Association between hospital rates of early Do-Not-Resuscitate orders and favorable neurological survival among survivors of inhospital cardiac arrest

Current guidelines recommend deferring prognostication for 48 to 72 hours after resuscitation from inhospital cardiac arrest. It is unknown whether hospitals vary in making patients who survive an arrest Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) early after resuscitation and whether a hospital's rate of early DNR is associated with its rate of favorable neurological survival. Within Get With the Guidelines-Resuscitation, we identified 24,899 patients from 236 hospitals who achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after inhospital cardiac arrest between 2006 and 2012. Hierarchical models were constructed to derive risk-adjusted hospital rates of DNR status adoption ≤12 hours after ROSC and risk-standardized rates of favorable neurological survival (without severe disability; Cerebral Performance Category ≤2). The association between hospitals' rates of early DNR and favorable neurological survival was evaluated using correlation statistics. Of 236 hospitals, 61.7% were academic, 83% had ≥200 beds, and 94% were urban. Overall, 5577 (22.4%) patients were made DNR ≤12 hours after ROSC. Risk-adjusted hospital rates of early DNR varied widely (7.1%-40.5%, median: 22.7% [IQR: 19.3%-26.1%]; median OR of 1.48). Significant hospital variation existed in risk-standardized rates of favorable neurological survival (3.5%-44.8%, median: 25.3% [IQR: 20.2%-29.4%]; median OR 1.72). Hospitals' risk-adjusted rates of early DNR were inversely correlated with their risk-standardized rates of favorable neurological survival (r=-0.179, P=.006). Despite current guideline recommendations, many patients with inhospital cardiac arrest are made DNR within 12 hours after ROSC, and hospitals vary widely in rates of early DNR. Higher hospital rates of early DNR were associated with worse meaningful survival outcomes.

Temporal trends and hospital-level variation of inhospital cardiac arrest incidence and outcomes in the Veterans Health Administration

Despite significant attention to resuscitation care by hospitals, national data on trends in the incidence and survival of patients with inhospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) are limited. To determine trends and hospital-level variation in the incidence and outcomes associated with IHCA. In exploratory analyses, we evaluated the relationship between hospital-level IHCA incidence and outcomes with general hospital-wide quality improvement activities. Retrospective cohort study of 2,205,123 hospitalizations at 101 Veterans Health Administration (VHA) hospitals between 2008 and 2012. Risk- and reliability-adjusted hospital-level IHCA incidence and survival to hospital discharge. A total of 8821 (0.40%) IHCA occurred between 2008 and 2012, with no significant change in risk-adjusted incidence over this time (P = .77). Hospital-level IHCA incidence varied substantially across facilities, with a median hospital incidence of 4.0 per 1000 hospitalizations and a range from 1.4 to 11.8 per 1000 hospitalizations. Overall, survival to discharge after IHCA was 31.2%. Risk-adjusted odds of survival increased over the study period (2012 vs 2008, OR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.27, 1.75) but survival varied substantially across facilities from 20.3% to 45.4%. General hospital quality improvement activities were inconsistently associated with IHCA incidence and survival. Within the VHA, the incidence and outcomes of IHCA showed important trends over time but varied substantially across hospitals with no consistent link to general hospital quality improvement activities. Identification of specific resuscitation practices at hospitals with low incidence and high survival of IHCA may guide further improvements for inhospital resuscitation.

Neurological outcomes of patients with history of obstructive sleep apnea after a cardiac arrest

BackgroundCardiac arrest survivors may have disabilities due to hypoxic brain injury. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea are exposed to intermittent hypoxemia that may lead to ischemic preconditioning. We have hypothesized that patients with obstructive sleep apnea have better neurological outcomes following a cardiac arrest due to preconditioning of the brain. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed all the survivors of in-hospital cardiac arrest from January 2006 to September 2016. Patients with confirmed or suspected obstructive sleep apnea were selected for further analysis and those without were used as comparison. Primary outcome was neurological functionality on hospital discharge by the Cerebral Performance Category. ResultsA total of 739 patients had cardiac arrest within the study period. The immediate mortality rate was 59% (N=43) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and 94% (N=623) in those without (p<0.001). Approximately 10% (N=73) were discharged alive and these were selected for further analysis. Patients without obstructive sleep apnea had more frequently “Poor” outcomes compared to those with obstructive sleep apnea (OR 2.91; 95% CI, 1.11–7.66; p=0.03). After adjusting in a multivariate analysis, obstructive sleep apnea was “protective” of “Poor” neurological outcomes: adjusted OR 0.21; 95% CI, 0.06–0.64; p=0.01. ConclusionPatients with obstructive sleep apnea had better unadjusted survival rates, and favorable adjusted neurological outcomes at discharge compared to those without obstructive sleep apnea. These results suggest that obstructive sleep apnea patients may tolerate better acute brain ischemia due to preconditioning.

Incidence and outcome of in-hospital cardiac arrest in Italy: a multicentre observational study in the Piedmont Region

Aimsto report the incidence, characteristics, and outcome of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) in a large Italian region. Settingall hospitals participating in the IHCA Registry Initiative of Piedmont. Methodsobservational cohort study in adult (>18year old) inpatients resuscitated from IHCA during three consecutive years (2012–2014). The main outcome measures were IHCA incidence and survival to hospital discharge. ResultsA total of1539 arrests in adult inpatients were recorded in the study period, yielding an overall incidence of 1.51 arrests/1000 admissions. The incidence was highest at day 1 after hospital admission and in the morning hours, with a peak at 9.00 a.m. Median age was 77 (interquartile range 68–83) years. The presenting rhythm was ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia in 291/1539 (18.9%) cases. A total of 549/1539 (35.7%) patients achieved recovery of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and 228/1539(14.8%) survived hospital discharge, with 207 (90.8%) of the latter having good neurological outcome (Cerebral Performance Categories [CPC] 1 or 2).After adjustment for major confounders, a pre-arrest CPC=1, a cardiac cause of arrest, a shockable presenting rhythm, and a shorter duration of resuscitation were independently associated with a higher likelihood of survival to discharge. Conclusionsin this Italian registry the incidence of IHCA and its circadian distribution were comparable to those in the NCAA registry in the UK. Patients were older and had a lower ROSC rate than these observed in other large IHCA registries, but post-ROSC survival rate and factors affecting survival to discharge were similar.

Health status and psychological distress among in-hospital cardiac arrest survivors in relation to gender

AimTo describe health status and psychological distress among in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) survivors in relation to gender. MethodsThis national register study consists of data from follow-up registration of IHCA survivors 3–6 months post cardiac arrest (CA) in Sweden. A questionnaire was sent to the survivors, including measurements of health status (EQ-5D-5L) and psychological distress (HADS). ResultsBetween 2013 and 2015, 594 IHCA survivors were included in the study. The median values for EQ-5D-5L index and EQ VAS among survivors were 0.78 (q1–q3=0.67–0.86) and 70 (q1–q3=50–80) respectively. The values were significantly lower (p<0.001) in women compared to men. In addition, women reported more problems than men in all dimensions of EQ-5D-5L, except self-care. A majority of the respondents reported no problems with anxiety (85.4%) and/or symptoms of depression (87.0%). Women reported significantly more problems with anxiety (p<0.001) and symptoms of depression (p<0.001) compared to men. Gender was significantly associated with poorer health status and more psychological distress. No interaction effects for gender and age were found. ConclusionsAlthough the majority of survivors reported acceptable health status and no psychological distress, a substantial proportion reported severe problems. Women reported worse health status and more psychological distress compared to men. Therefore, a higher proportion of women may be in need of support. Health care professionals should make efforts to identify health problems among survivors and offer individualised support when needed.

Duration of resuscitation efforts for in-hospital cardiac arrest by predicted outcomes: Insights from Get With The Guidelines − Resuscitation

BackgroundThe duration of resuscitation efforts has implications for patient survival of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA). It is unknown if patients with better predicted survival of IHCA receive longer attempts at resuscitation. MethodsIn a multicenter observational cohort of 40,563 adult non-survivors of resuscitation efforts for IHCA between 2000 and 2012, we determined the pre-arrest predicted probability of survival to discharge with good neurologic status, categorized into very low (<1%), low (1–3%), average (>3%–15%), and above average (>15%). We then determined the association between predicted arrest survival probability and the duration of resuscitation efforts. ResultsThe median duration of resuscitation efforts among all non-survivors was 19min (interquartile range 13–28min). Overall, the median duration of resuscitation efforts was longer in non-survivors with a higher predicted probability of survival with good neurologic status (median of 16, 17, 20, and 23min among the groups predicted to have very low, low, average, and above probabilities, respectively; P<0.001). However, the duration of resuscitation was often discordant with predicted survival, including longer than median duration of resuscitation efforts in 40.4% of patients with very low predicted survival and shorter than median duration of resuscitation efforts in 31.9% of patients with above average predicted survival. ConclusionsThe duration of resuscitation efforts in patients with IHCA was generally consistent with their predicted survival. However, nearly a third of patients with above average predicted outcomes received shorter than average (less than 19min) duration of resuscitation efforts.

Similar long-term survival of consecutive in-hospital and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients treated with targeted temperature management.

ObjectiveThe long-term survival of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) patients treated with targeted temperature management (TTM) is poorly described. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of consecutive IHCA with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients treated with TTM.Design, setting, and patientsRetrospectively collected data on all consecutive adult patients treated with TTM at a university tertiary heart center between 2005 and 2011 were analyzed.MeasurementsPrimary endpoints were survival to hospital discharge and long-term survival. Secondary endpoint was neurological outcome assessed using the Pittsburgh cerebral performance category (CPC).ResultsA total of 282 patients were included in this study; 233 (83%) OHCA and 49 (17%) IHCA. The IHCA group presented more often with asystole, received bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in all cases, and had shorter time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Survival to hospital discharge was 54% for OHCA and 53% for IHCA (adjusted odds ratio 0.98 [95% confidence interval {CI}; 0.43–2.24]). Age ≤60 years, bystander CPR, time to ROSC ≤10 min, and shockable rhythm at presentation were associated with survival to hospital discharge. Good neurologic outcome among survivors was achieved by 86% of OHCA and 92% of IHCA (P=0.83). After a median follow-up time of >5 years, 83% of OHCA and 77% of IHCA were alive (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.51 [95% CI; 0.59–3.91]). Age ≤60 years was the only factor associated with long-term survival (adjusted HR 2.73 [95% CI; 1.36–5.52]).ConclusionThere was no difference in short- and long-term survival and no difference in neurologic outcome to hospital discharge between IHCA and OHCA patients treated with TTM despite higher frequency of asystole in IHCA.

Resuscitation Practices Associated With Survival After In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest

Although survival of patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest varies markedly among hospitals, specific resuscitation practices that distinguish sites with higher cardiac arrest survival rates remain unknown. To identify resuscitation practices associated with higher rates of in-hospital cardiac arrest survival. Nationwide survey of resuscitation practices at hospitals participating in the Get With the Guidelines-Resuscitation registry and with 20 or more adult in-hospital cardiac arrest cases from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2013. Data analysis was performed from June 10 to December 22, 2015. Risk-standardized survival rates for cardiac arrest were calculated at each hospital and were then used to categorize hospitals into quintiles of performance. The association between resuscitation practices and quintiles of survival was evaluated using hierarchical proportional odds logistic regression models. Overall, 150 (78.1%) of 192 eligible hospitals completed the study survey, and 131 facilities with 20 or more adult in-hospital cardiac arrest cases comprised the final study cohort. Risk-standardized survival rates after in-hospital cardiac arrest varied substantially (median, 23.7%; range, 9.2%-37.5%). Several resuscitation practices were associated with survival on bivariate analysis, although only 3 were significant after multivariable adjustment: monitoring for interruptions in chest compressions (adjusted odds ratio [OR] for being in a higher survival quintile category, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.24-5.93; P = .01), reviewing cardiac arrest cases monthly (adjusted OR for being in a higher survival quintile category, 8.55; 95% CI, 1.79-40.00) or quarterly (OR, 6.85; 95% CI, 1.49-31.30; P = .03), and adequate resuscitation training (adjusted OR, 3.23; 95% CI, 1.21-8.33; P = .02). Using survey information from acute care hospitals participating in a national quality improvement registry, we identified 3 resuscitation strategies associated with higher hospital rates of survival for patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest. These strategies can form the foundation for best practices for resuscitation care at hospitals given the high incidence and variation in survival for in-hospital cardiac arrest.

ECG patterns in early pulseless electrical activity-Associations with aetiology and survival of in-hospital cardiac arrest

IntroductionPulseless electrical activity (PEA) is an increasingly common presentation in cardiac arrest. The aim of this study was to investigate possible associations between early ECG patterns in PEA and the underlying causes and survival of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA). MethodsProspectively observed episodes of IHCA presenting as PEA between January 2009 and august 2013, with a reliable cause of arrest and corresponding defibrillator ECG recordings, were analysed. QRS width, QT interval, Bazett's corrected QT interval, presence of P waves and heart rate (HR) was determined. QRS width and HR were considered to be normal below 120ms and within 60–100 cardiac cycles per minute, respectively. ResultsFifty-one episodes fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The defibrillator was attached after a median of one minute (75th percentile; 3min) after the onset of arrest. Ninety percent (46/51) had widened QRS complexes, 63% (32/51) were defined as ‘wide-slow’ due to QRS-widened bradycardia, and only 6% (3/51) episodes were categorized as normal. No unique cause-specific ECG pattern could be identified.Further 7 episodes with a corresponding defibrillator file, but without a reliable cause, were included in analysis of survival. Abnormal ECG patterns were seen in all survivors. None of the patients with ‘normal’ PEA survived. ConclusionAbnormal ECG patterns were frequent at the early stage of in-hospital PEA. No unique patterns were associated with the underlying causes or survival.

Missed opportunities in use of medical emergency teams prior to in-hospital cardiac arrest

Hospitals often employ Medical Emergency Teams (METs) to respond to patients with acute physiological decline so as to prevent deaths from in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA). We determined the frequency of missed opportunities for MET evaluation, defined as no MET evaluation prior to IHCA despite evidence of severe vital sign abnormalities ≥1 hour preceding cardiac arrest. Within Get With The Guidelines-Resuscitation, we identified 21,913 patients from 274 hospitals with IHCA on general inpatient or telemetry floors who would be eligible for a MET evaluation prior to IHCA. We determined the proportion of patients with missed opportunities for MET evaluation, defined as no MET evaluation before IHCA despite at least 1 severe vital sign abnormality (pulse >150 or <30, respiratory rate >35 or <8, systolic blood pressure <80, and oxygen saturation <80%) 1, 2, and 4 hours before IHCA. The relationship between a hospital's proportion of missed opportunities for MET evaluation and its risk-standardized rate of survival to discharge for IHCA (derived using hierarchical linear regression models) was then evaluated. Overall, few (3,814 [17.4%]) patients with IHCA had a preceding MET evaluation, and the odds of a MET evaluation varied by >80% across hospitals (median, 14.6% [interquartile range, 9.1%-22.2%]; median odds ratio, 1.82). Vital sign data were available for 13,115 (72.5%) of the 18,099 patients without MET evaluation. Of these patients, 5,243 (40.0%), 4,078 (31.1%), and 1,767 (13.4%) had at least 1 severe vital sign abnormality ≥1, 2, and 4 hours before IHCA, respectively. Hospitals with the highest proportion of unevaluated patients despite severe vital sign abnormalities 2 and 4 hours preceding cardiac arrest had the lowest IHCA survival rate (correlation of -0.14 [P = .04] and -0.16 [P = .01], respectively). Although METs are designed to prevent IHCA, many patients with severe vital sign abnormalities prior to IHCA did not have a MET evaluation, and hospitals with higher rates of unevaluated patients had lower IHCA survival. These findings suggest missed opportunities to efficiently use METs in current practice.