Therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest

— patients' quality of life and function in relation to signs of brain damage, and the perceptions of significant others

The overall aim was to follow all patients during the first six months following cardiac arrest who are receiving therapeutic hypothermia treatment, in order to study quality of life, physical and psychological function, neurological status and mortality related to initial signs of brain damage, MRI scan results, and oxygen extension of the brain. The aim was also to compare quality of life and function over time. Another aim was to provide a description of how significant others perceive the period following the cardiac arrest and how the incident has affected their everyday lives.

The project has resulted in 5 research articles and 12 research abstracts presented on international as well as on national conferences, and at least 2 more research articles are under preparation.  

Research period: 2008-2015.

Researchers

Professor Sten Rubertsson, University of Uppsala
Marja-Leena Kristofferzon, University of Gävle

PhD Student

Ing-Marie Larsson and Ewa Wallin, University of Uppsala

Ing-Marie Larsson took her PhD degree on 10th October 2014. Ewa Wallin plans to take her PhD degree on 22th May 2015.