Autoresuscitering

Abstract

Background: Cardiac arrest is a critical condition that can occur unexpectedly in prehospital settings. In rare instances, patients may experience a phenomenon known as autoresuscitation, or the Lazarus phenomenon, where spontaneous circulation resumes after resuscitation efforts have ceased.

Case presentation: A 90-year-old woman suffered prehospital cardiac arrest. Despite 20 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, no shockable rhythm was detected by an AED, and she was declared dead. Shortly after, she unexpectedly regained a pulse and began breathing. Although her condition showed slight improvement, she remained unresponsive and was placed in palliative care, passing away the next day.

Interpretation: This case underscores the rarity of autoresuscitation and highlights the importance of monitoring patients after CPR before declaring death. Awareness of the phenomenon can enhance communication with families in cases where it occurs.