In-hospital cardiac arrest in Intensive Care Unit versus non-Intensive Care Unit patients with COVID-19. A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Aim: To estimate the incidence of in hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in COVID 19 patients, as well as to compare the incidence and outcomes of IHCA in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) versus non ICU patients with COVID 19. Methods: We systematically reviewed the PubMed, Scopus and clinicaltrials.gov databases to identify relevant studies. Results: Eleven studies were included in our study. The pooled prevalence/incidence, pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI) were calculated, as appropriate. The quality of the included studies was assessed using appropriate tools. The pooled incidence of IHCA in COVID 19 patients was 7% [95% CI: 4, 11%; P < 0.0001] and 44% [95% CI: 30, 58%; P < 0.0001] achieved ROSC. Of those that survived, 58% [95% CI: 42, 74%; P < 0.0001] had a good neurological outcome (Cerebral Performance Category 1 or 2) and the mortality at the last follow up was 59% [95% CI: 37, 81%; P < 0.0001]. A statistically significant higher percentage of ROSC [OR (95% CI): 5.088 (2.852, 9.079); P < 0.0001] was found among ICU patients versus those in the general wards. Conclusion: The incidence of IHCA amongst hospitalized COVID 19 patients is 7%, with 44% of them achieving ROSC. Patients in the ICU were more likely to achieve ROSC than those in the general wards, however the mortality did not differ.