In-hospital Cardiac Arrest at Cork University Hospital

Irish Medical Journal
|February 25, 2016
PubMed

Insights

In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) survival was 27% at Cork University Hospital in 2011. Survival was lower on wards, but survivors had excellent neurological outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Hospital Quality Improvement

Background:

  • In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) remains a critical event impacting patient outcomes.
  • Understanding IHCA incidence and survival is crucial for improving hospital care.
  • Cork University Hospital (CUH) data from 2011 provides a pre-National Early Warning Score (NEWS) implementation baseline.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and outcomes of IHCA at CUH in 2011.
  • To identify factors influencing IHCA survival within the hospital setting.
  • To establish a benchmark for future quality improvement initiatives.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of adult admissions (>/= 18 years) at CUH in 2011.
  • Utilized the Hospital In-Patient Enquiry Database to identify IHCA cases.
  • Collected Utstein variables for 63 identified IHCA patients, excluding 52 incorrectly coded cases.

Main Results:

  • Overall IHCA survival to discharge was 27.0% (17 of 63 patients).
  • Survival rates were significantly higher for IHCA with a shockable rhythm.
  • IHCA survival was significantly lower on hospital wards compared to other locations.
  • Survivors demonstrated excellent neurological outcomes, with good one-year survival.

Conclusions:

  • IHCA outcomes at CUH in 2011 were poorest on hospital wards.
  • Prompt identification and intervention are critical for improving IHCA survival.
  • The study highlights the need for standardized early warning systems to enhance patient care.

Related Concept Videos

Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care01:28

Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care

IntroductionThe management of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) aims to minimize myocardial damage, preserve myocardial function, and prevent complications.Initial ManagementInpatient management involves continuous cardiac monitoring, preferably in an ICU, focusing on blood pressure, serum sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels, and urine output. Ongoing pharmacologic management is crucial for stabilizing the patient.Supplemental Oxygen: Administer supplemental oxygen if oxygen saturation is...
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies01:30

Introduction Cardiac Emergencies

Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation I: Adult01:21

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation I: Adult

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is a life-saving emergency procedure performed when a person's heart has stopped beating or they are no longer breathing. The foundation of CPR is Basic Life Support (BLS), which focuses on the early recognition of cardiac arrest, the immediate start of high-quality chest compressions, and the timely use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).Assessing Responsiveness and Checking the Carotid PulseWhen approaching an unresponsive person, first ensure...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management01:22

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use01:23

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use

Introduction to AEDAn Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable medical device that analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, leading to a loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. In such emergencies, time is of the essence, and using an AED, combined with Cardiopulmonary...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management01:25

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management

Pharmacologic intervention is crucial in treating cardiac arrest patients during ACLS or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. The ACLS algorithms guide the administration of specific drugs based on the patient's cardiac arrest rhythm, which includes pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), asystole, and pulseless electrical activity (PEA).EpinephrineIndication: Epinephrine is the first-line drug for all cardiac arrest rhythms.Mechanism of Action: Epinephrine...