Objectives
Definitive Care
Resuscitation does not stop after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). It is vital for maintenance of airway, breathing and circulation to continue. ROSC is just the first step toward the goal of complete recovery from cardiac arrest. It is evident that multiple interventions undertaken in the post-resuscitation period significantly influence the final outcome. ANZCOR Guideline 11.7, 2021The aims of treatments after initial resuscitation are to:
ANZCOR Guideline 11.7, 2021
This management is dependent on patient indicators. The patient may need immediate surgery and thus prompt transfer to the operating theatre is required. Percutaneous coronary intervention may be considered if appropriate and the facility is available. If the patient is intubated, ventilation in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) will be required. For the spontaneously breathing patient, continued management may take place in a High Dependency Unit (HDU) or Coronary Care Unit (CCU).
It may be necessary to transfer the patient to another facility where appropriate management may be implemented.
Continually reassess and re-evaluate the patient using ABCDE survey (see Clinical Deterioration). When evaluating the patient using the ABCDE survey in the post-resuscitation phase, the focus is on advanced assessments and treatments as indicated. A full history and examination will guide further investigations.
ANZCOR Guideline 11.2, 2021
