Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest quality of life follow-up study of survivors in Munster, Ireland.

Abstract

Quality of life of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survivors is believed to be as important as a factor in resuscitation outcome as the survival rate. The aim of this investigation is to assess the quality of life outcomes of survivors of out-of- hospital cardiac arrest in the Munster region. OHCAR was used to identify survivors who were contacted in writing to invite their participation. Internationally standardized phone based questionnaires were utilized to assess quality of life. The mean age of participants was 63.5 years with 85% male and 15% female. Eighty percent (n = 16) had no issues with mobility, 90% (n = 18) had no issues with personal care, 90% could undertake all usual activities, and 90% (n = 18) experienced no anxiety or depression. In conclusion, survivors of OHCA in the Munster area, who participated in this study, survive at a very high functional level.