Introduction: Previous studies have demonstrated differences in characteristics and outcome between men and women in cardiac arrest (CA) populations. However, most studies have focused only on survival outcome. Knowledge about patient reported health and psychological distress among CA survivors is sparse, in particular among those suffering in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA). The aim was to describe health status and psychological distress among IHCA survivors in relation to sex.

Methods: This national register study presents follow-up data of IHCA survivors from 64% of the eligible hospitals in Sweden. A questionnaire was sent to the survivors, 3-6 months post CA, including measures of health status (EQ-5D) and psychological distress (HADS).

Results: Between 2013 and 2015, 594 IHCA survivors were included. Women reported more problems in all dimensions of EQ-5D, except for Self-care. They also had worse health status (EQ-index) (0.75 vs 0.79, p<0.001). The median value for EQ-VAS was 70 (q1-q3=50-80), significantly lower for women compared to men (65 vs 75, p<0.001). A majority reported no problems with anxiety (85.4%) and/or symptoms of depression (87.0%). Women reported significantly more problems with anxiety (median 3 vs 2, p<0.001) and symptoms of depression (median 3 vs 2, p<0.001) compared to men. Being women was significantly associated with lower health status and more psychological distress in the regression models. No interaction effects for sex and age were found.

Conclusions: Although the majority of the survivors reported acceptable health status and no psychological distress, a substantial group reported serious problems. Women reported worse health status and more psychological distress compared to men. Therefore, a higher proportion of women may be in need of support. All IHCA survivors should be screened for health problems during the post cardiac arrest follow-up, and offered support when needed.