Effects of an Web-based Support Programme for Cardiac Arrest Survivors

Cardiac arrest is a serious public health issue, affecting around 13,000 people annually in Sweden. Survivors often face long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and post-traumatic stress. These difficulties can significantly impact daily life, and many survivors struggle to return to work or previous routines.

Although guidelines recommend follow-up within 1-3 months after hospital discharge, support is often fragmented and varies across regions. Survivors frequently report limited access to reliable information and emotional support. Research has shown that structured education and rehabilitation are essential for both survivors and their families, yet current care models rarely address these needs in a comprehensive way.

To help fill this gap, a web-based support programme was co-created in 2024-2025 by researchers, healthcare professionals, cardiac arrest survivors, and patient organizations. The programme includes educational modules, patient and family stories, videos, practical exercises, and tools for self-management and personal recovery planning. It also features a moderated chat forum for peer support. A feasibility study showed that the programme was easy to use and perceived as relevant and helpful.

The study begins with a pilot phase (n=10) to test study procedures, followed by a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 120 participants across eight Swedish regions. Participants are recruited during routine follow-up visit one month after discharge. All participants receive standard care. Those randomized to the intervention group gain access to the digital support programme for 12 weeks. The control group receives standard care and gains access to the programme after study completion.

Consent and data collection are handled digitally. Participants are asked to complete online surveys at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. These surveys cover wellbeing, quality of life, sleep, fatigue, emotional health, and cognitive function. The study also collects usage data from the programme to understand how participants engage with the content. No physical tests or extra clinic visits are required.

The study aims to generate new knowledge about how digital tools can support recovery after cardiac arrest, improve wellbeing, and reduce healthcare burden by offering accessible, person-centered rehabilitation.

• Change from Baseline in Quality of Life at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Life Satisfaction at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Anxiety at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Depression at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Post-Traumatic Stress at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Fatigue at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Sleep at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 and 6 months after enrollment.]
• Change from baseline in Cognitive Function at 3 and 6 months. [Срок оценки: From baseline to 3 months after enrollment.]