Purpose: To describe cognitive function, activities of daily living (ADL), housing and return to work after cardiac arrest (CA) and examine the prognostic value of early assessments.
Method: Two years after CA 22 persons were assessed with the Barrow Neurological Screen for Higher Cerebral Functions (BNIS) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Data on early assessments of neurological status (The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, NIHSS), mental status (the Mini Mental State Examination, MMSE) and ADL ability (FIM) were retrieved.
Results: Sixty-four per cent were living in their own home, 36% lived in sheltered accommodation and 29% of those of working age had returned to work. Cognitive dysfunction was noted in 95% according to neuropsychological screen. Four persons living in own homes were in need of assistance in social-cognitive ADL. All those in sheltered accommodation needed help in ADL; one was independent in motor functions. This need for assistance was reflected at initial assessments by a higher degree of neurological deficits, cognitive dysfunctions and dependency in ADL activities.
Conclusion: The majority had persistent cognitive dysfunctions. Persons in sheltered accommodation were dependent for ADL. Early evaluation is important for understanding and planning for future need for assistance and care, having realistic goals.