Resuscitation
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We compared novel methods of long-term follow-up after resuscitation from cardiac arrest to a query of the National Death Index (NDI). We hypothesized use of the electronic health record (EHR), and internet-based sources would have high sensitivity for identifying decedents identified by the NDI. ⋯ Novel methods of outcome assessment are an alternative to NDI for determining patients' vital status. These methods are less reliable for estimating functional status.
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Nearly half of ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia (VF/VT) out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients receive three or more shocks, often referred to as refractory VF/VT. Our objective was to derive a clinical decision rule (CDR) for the early stratification of patients into risk categories for refractory VF/VT. ⋯ Patients at higher risk for refractory VF/VT can be identified early in EMS care.
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To examine whether TTM treatment was aligned with predicted mortality risk in patients with resuscitated OHCA during a period when it was a class I guideline-recommended therapy. ⋯ TTM treatment patterns were not well-aligned with patients' mortality risk during a period when it was a guideline-recommended treatment for OHCA. Identifying strategies to better align guideline-recommended treatments with patients' mortality risk is critical for efforts to improve OHCA survival.