Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the completion of the Utstein-style forms after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the St Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen (UMCN), the Netherlands, and to assess the outcomes of the CPR attempts. DESIGN: Retrospective, descriptive. METHOD: All Utstein-style forms used in the UMCN during the period 1 January 1997-31 December 2000 were examined. The data were supplemented with information from medical records. Resuscitation events initiated in the hospital were included, with the exception of those in the coronary care and intensive care units. RESULTS: 222 forms were completed, 183 of which related to in-hospital resuscitations: 104 men and 79 women with a median age of 65 years: (P25-P75: 49-75). On 148 forms (81%), the patient name, patient identifier and date of collapse were all reported. The cause of collapse was noted in 131 cases (72%). Cardiac condition during CPR was recorded in 126 cases (69%). The Glasgow coma score 10 minutes after CPR was recorded in 41 cases (22%), and 24 hours after CPR in 15 cases (8%). Information regarding follow-up was provided on 27 forms (15%): in all cases this concerned unsuccessful resuscitation. However, medical records revealed that CPR was initially successful in 105 patients (57%), and that 55 patients (30%) eventually survived to discharge. CONCLUSIONS: The variables on the Utstein-style form relating to the acute phase were poorly completed, and even fewer variables were completed for later phases. CPR was successful in 57% of the patients, and 30% left the hospital alive.
