Practice Parameter: Outcome in Comatose Survivors of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

A recent practice parameter from the American Academy of Neurology, and a second article reporting the practical experience of neurologists who implemented similar practices

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has published a valuable new practice parameter for prediction of poor outcome in comatose adult survivors of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This is a comprehensive, evidence-based review of the prognostic value of such factors as the circumstances surrounding the CPR, the clinical examination, and ancillary investigations (electrophysiologic, biochemical, and radiologic). The authors use well-regarded standards to review, grade (A through C, and unknown), and analyze this evidence.

The review identified the following features as aiding prediction of poor outcome in comatose survivors of CPR:

bilateral absence of pupillary light responses and corneal reflexes during days 1 to 3 after CPR (level A)…

Reviewing Author

Allan Krumholz, MD