This thesis gives insight into the patient group that survived an OHCA and gives directions to the development, evaluation and implementation of integrated rehabilitation treated programs, with the... Show moreThis thesis gives insight into the patient group that survived an OHCA and gives directions to the development, evaluation and implementation of integrated rehabilitation treated programs, with the ultimated goal being that all surviors and their spouses regain optimal quality of life and autonomy. Our studies showed that survivors of an OHCA attending a rehabilitation program may experience cognitive problems. A first attempt of identifying cognitive problems with a set of cognitive screening instruments in patients who attend a (cardiac) rehabilitation program appeared to be feasible, although the screening needs further refinement. The finding that cognitive impairments have a negative effect on exercise capacity is important to take into account while further optimising the best rehabilitation program. Finally, the rehabilitation program should not only focus on the patient but also on the spouse or the caregiver. By developing a core outcome set for rehabilitation the effectivenss of cognitive rehabilitation in OHCA patients and their relatives can be better evaluated. Show less
