Question

During the post-cardiac arrest care phase, your team has optimized the patient's oxygenation, ventilation, and hemodynamic status. The patient's 12-lead EKG identifies St-segment elevation MI, and the patient is being prepped for transport to the cath lab to undergo coronary reperfusion therapy. Why is it important to assess the patient's ability to follow commands?

Answer 1

Assessing the patient's ability to follow commands helps determine their cognitive function and neurological status after a cardiac arrest.

Step-by-step explanation:

Assessing the patient's ability to follow commands is important during the post-cardiac arrest care phase because it helps determine the patient's cognitive function and neurological status. By assessing their ability to follow commands, medical professionals can gauge if there are any neurological deficits or impairments that may have resulted from the cardiac arrest event. This information is crucial in guiding the appropriate management and treatment decisions for the patient.