Influence of algorithm-based analgesia and sedation in patients after sudden cardiac arrest

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of an algorithm-based analgesic-sedative management on mechanical ventilation time and length of stay in a cardiological ICU with critical ill patients after sudden cardiac arrest.

We examined 100 patients after successful resuscitation in a retrospective-prospective single-centre trial by introducing an algorithm-based sedation management. Demographic data, severity of illness classified by APACHE II score (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II), neurological outcome and data for mechanical ventilation time and length of stay were acquired for both groups.

We found a shorter ventilation time for young patients without severe illness, whereby significant longer ventilation time was observed for patients with higher APACHE II score. Between both groups, we found no significant differences in mechanical ventilation time and length of stay.

Our results demonstrate a tendency towards a reduction of mechanical ventilation time for patients without severe illness after sudden cardiac arrest achieved by implementation of a new sedation management, whereby significant longer ventilation time was observed for severe ill patients. Because of lack of statistical significance of our present study, a randomized study with sufficient power is necessary to demonstrate positive effects of a standardized sedation management and its influence on severity of illness.