Going back to work after cardiac arrest or ECMO: what to ask your care team

What the sources say

Fatigue, trouble with focus, memory problems and trouble planning are commonly reported after a cardiac arrest, and physical and mental abilities can change over the first year.Source:American Heart Association

The American Heart Association suggests asking your care team: "When can I return to work?"Source:American Heart Association

Recovery looks different for each survivor. Some notice steady improvement over the first year, while others need ongoing support.Source:American Heart Association

Questions to ask your care team

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When might I be ready to go back to work, and what would that depend on?
Could I start with fewer hours or lighter duties first?
Is there anything about my job I should avoid or limit, such as lifting, long standing, heat, stress or driving?
How might tiredness, memory or focus affect my work, and who could help me plan for that?
Is there a professional, such as an occupational therapist or social worker, who can help me with the return?
What would tell me I am doing too much?
What should I tell my employer, and can you give me a note about what I can and cannot do?
Who should I call if something happens at work?

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Call 911 if...

Chest pain, shortness of breath or a cold sweat at work: call 911 rather than waiting to see if it passes.Source:American Heart Association

Call 911

Quick answers

What should I ask my doctor before returning to work after cardiac arrest?

Ask when you can return, whether you can start with fewer hours, what to avoid in your job, and how tiredness, memory and focus might affect your work. The American Heart Association lists "When can I return to work?" among the questions to ask.

Source:American Heart Association

Where this comes from

General information, not medical advice. Talk to your care team.