How long should post-cardiac arrest targeted temperature management be maintained?

How long should post-cardiac arrest targeted temperature management be maintained?

• A. 6 hours
• B. 24 hours
• C. 48 hours
• D. 72 hours

Answer: (B)

Targeted temperature management after cardiac arrest is used to protect the brain during the vulnerable reperfusion period. The standard approach is to keep the patient at a controlled temperature for about 24 hours (typically 32–36°C). This duration provides meaningful neuroprotection without adding the risks seen with longer cooling, such as infections or electrolyte and hemodynamic disturbances. Extending cooling to 48–72 hours hasn’t shown additional benefit in major studies, and rapid or prolonged cooling can complicate recovery. After the 24-hour window, rewarming is started gradually to avoid instability.

Targeted temperature management after cardiac arrest is used to protect the brain during the vulnerable reperfusion period. The standard approach is to keep the patient at a controlled temperature for about 24 hours (typically 32–36°C). This duration provides meaningful neuroprotection without adding the risks seen with longer cooling, such as infections or electrolyte and hemodynamic disturbances. Extending cooling to 48–72 hours hasn’t shown additional benefit in major studies, and rapid or prolonged cooling can complicate recovery. After the 24-hour window, rewarming is started gradually to avoid instability.