Helping Mr. S
Mr. S was considered a good candidate for therapeutic hypothermia, which was initiated in the ED. After being rapidly cooled, he was transferred to the ICU. On day 3, he was awake and responding to simple commands. On day 4, Mr. S was extubated. He demonstrated some mild neurologic deficits (extremity weakness and slowed speech) and was discharged to a rehabilitation facility on day 10.
Therapeutic hypothermia for select patients experiencing ROSC after cardiac arrest is a valid intervention in which nurses play a vital role.
Understanding the physiologic basis for therapeutic hypothermia, as well as the responsibilities related to patient care, are the keys to achieving optimal patient outcomes.