Resuscitation
-
Review Meta Analysis
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between arterial carbon dioxide tension and outcomes after cardiac arrest.
Arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) abnormalities are common after cardiac arrest (CA). Maintaining a normal PaCO2 makes physiological sense and is recommended as a therapeutic target after CA, but few studies have examined the association between PaCO2 and patient outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of a low or high PaCO2 on patient outcomes after CA. ⋯ From the limited data it appears PaCO2 has an important U-shape association with survival and outcomes after CA, consistent with international resuscitation guidelines' recommendation that normocarbia be targeted during post-resuscitation care.