For most survivors, the cardiac arrest itself is something they have little or no memory of. What follows, however, is an experience they live through very consciously — a journey through intensive care, investigations, procedures, and recovery that can stretch across months or years.
This section covers the treatments and interventions you are most likely to encounter after surviving a cardiac arrest. It is not a guide to emergency resuscitation; it is a guide to what comes next — written for survivors, co-survivors, and families navigating a healthcare system that doesn’t always explain things as clearly as it should.
What’s in This Section
In the ICU — Most survivors spend time in an intensive care unit following their arrest. This guide explains what to expect during an ICU stay, the equipment you may encounter, and what family members can do during this difficult time.
ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) — Many cardiac arrest survivors are fitted with an ICD — a small device implanted in the chest that monitors heart rhythm and delivers a shock if needed. This section covers how ICDs work, ICD sounds and alerts, what to do if you receive a shock, and precautions to be aware of in daily life.
Ablation — Catheter ablation is a procedure used to treat abnormal heart rhythms by targeting the area of the heart causing the problem. This page explains when ablation is used and what the procedure involves.
Cardiac Rehabilitation — Cardiac rehab is a structured programme of exercise and education designed to support recovery after a cardiac event. Survivors are not always referred automatically — this page explains what it involves and how to access it.
Medications — Most survivors leave hospital with a range of medications. This page helps you understand what you may be prescribed and why, covering common cardiac drugs in plain language.
Medical Tests — From ECGs to MRI scans, cardiac arrest survivors undergo a range of diagnostic investigations. This page explains the most common tests and what they are looking for.
Counselling and Psychological Support — The psychological impact of cardiac arrest is significant and often underestimated. This section covers the talking therapies most relevant to survivors and co-survivors, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and mindfulness.
Medical Devices — A broader look at the devices used in cardiac care, including pacemakers and wearable defibrillators.
Treatment Is Only Part of the Picture
The clinical pathway after cardiac arrest — however comprehensive — rarely addresses the full reality of recovery. Many survivors find that connecting with others who have been through the same procedures, devices, and decisions is as valuable as anything the NHS provides.
If you have questions about any aspect of your treatment, our FAQ may help — or join our community to speak with people who have been through it firsthand.