What is the goal of post-resuscitation care?

The goal of post-resuscitation care centers around addressing potential neurological and hemodynamic complications following a resuscitation attempt. After a patient has been resuscitated from cardiac arrest, they are at a high risk for a variety of complications, particularly those related to the brain and circulation.

Ensuring adequate blood flow to the brain and maintaining stable hemodynamics are critical to minimizing brain injury and promoting recovery. This includes managing cerebral perfusion pressure and addressing issues related to oxygenation and ventilation. It is essential to monitor and support the cardiovascular system to prevent further deterioration, as patients can experience instability in their blood pressure, heart rate, and organ perfusion.

While optimizing patient comfort and safety or ensuring proper medication administration are also important aspects of post-resuscitation care, the primary focus is on preventing and managing complications that could lead to long-term disability or death. Stabilizing blood pressure, while vital, is only one part of a broader strategy that includes neurological support and monitoring throughout the post-resuscitation phase.