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Assessment of Dependence in Activities of Daily Living Among Older Patients in an Acute Care Unit
Published on: September 30, 2020
Two years after cardiac arrest; cognitive status, ADL function and living situation
C Hofgren1, A Lundgren-Nilsson, E Esbjörnsson
1Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. caisa.hofgren@rehab.gu.se
Brain Injury
|November 14, 2008
Summary
Most cardiac arrest survivors experience lasting cognitive dysfunction and require assistance with daily activities. Early assessments are crucial for predicting long-term care needs and setting realistic recovery goals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cardiac arrest (CA) survivors often face long-term challenges impacting daily life.
- Understanding post-CA recovery is essential for effective patient management and support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize cognitive function, activities of daily living (ADL), housing, and return to work after cardiac arrest.
- To evaluate the predictive significance of early assessments for long-term outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 22 individuals were assessed two years post-cardiac arrest using the Barrow Neurological Screen for Higher Cerebral Functions (BNIS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM).
- Retrieved data included early neurological status (NIHSS), mental status (MMSE), and ADL (FIM) assessments.
Main Results:
- 95% exhibited cognitive dysfunction; 64% lived at home, 36% in sheltered accommodation, and 29% of working age returned to work.
- Individuals in sheltered accommodation required ADL assistance, while some living at home needed help with social-cognitive ADL.
- Initial neurological deficits, cognitive impairment, and ADL dependency correlated with later need for assistance.
Conclusions:
- Persistent cognitive dysfunction is common after cardiac arrest.
- Sheltered accommodation residents often require significant ADL support.
- Early assessments are vital for predicting future care requirements and establishing realistic patient goals.
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