Life After Cardiac Arrest

Paul talks to son and lifesaver Mark Holt about his father's cardiac arrest in a remote Lake District pub. Mark takes us through the event that occurred soon after his seemingly fit and healthy father had completed a run and a walk up the Old Man of Coniston. Mark talks about his work as a carer and how the experience of doing CPR in a medical environment differs from doing it on a family member far away from a hospital. He talks about how it has affected him and his family, his dad's recovery and how a previous stranger's cardiac arrest effectively saved his dad's life.Presented and edited by Paul SwindellRecorded in June 2020

Paul talks with consultant neurologist Professor Tobias Cronberg from Lund University in Sweden on predicting how patients will do after they have had a cardiac arrest.If you listened to episode #044 you will know that Professor Cronberg has a deep interest in brain injury after a cardiac arrest and recently The Lancet published a major review he led into the current state of this subject from prognostication through to rehabilitation.This episode focuses on the prognostication aspect and Professor Cronberg gives us some insights into the tools and techniques that are used and the whys and hows of decisions that are made when reasoning on the possible outcomes.Please be warned that this may be a difficult episode for some to listen to as the professor talks about the stark realities of surviving a cardiac arrest even if you get to the hospital alive.If you enjoyed this podcast please do leave a positive review on Apple or other podcast providers as it helps us to spread the word.Presented and edited by Paul Swindell.Recorded June 2020. 

Paul talks about a device that many sudden cardiac arrest survivors have implanted, an ICD - Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator.This episode is an introduction (or "101") into the sorts of things that those with an ICD should be aware of. He covers what an ICD is and why you might have one, what they do and what some of the things to be aware of.Packed full of tips and useful information around this device that is becoming more and more common.An episode for anyone with an ICD whether they've had a cardiac arrest or not.Resources mentioned in the episode:ICD PrecautionsICD ShocksICD SoundsICD ProtectionICD Electro Magnetic CompatibilityICD Support Centre LocatorAsk The ICDDoug Rachac ICD YouTube ChannelPresented and edited by Paul Swindell.Recorded June 2020