Evaluation of the Patient Resuscitated from Cardiac Arrest

Sudden cardiac death is the most common cause of mortality in adults less than age 65 years of age. Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of cardiac arrest. Survivors of cardiac arrest should undergo a complete history and physical examination as well as cardiac catheterization and electrophysiologic testing. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is often necessary to prevent sudden cardiac death. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy, alone or with the ICD, is often useful. Survivors of cardiac arrest are at a high risk for a recurrent episode if not treated properly, so referral to a clinical electrophysiologist is suggested.