An Unusual Resuscitation Experience: The Phenomenon of CPR-Induced Consciousness

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation-induced consciousness (CPR-IC), as the name implies, can readily be recognised by the presence during cardiac arrest of spontaneous and purposeful patient movements that immediately cease after stopping chest compressions. It is increasingly being reported across the world [1]. High quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may transiently generate sufficient cerebral perfusion to cause signs of consciousness during CPR which disappears on cessation of CPR. Hereby we present two cases, a 40-year-old male presenting with myocardial infarction and a 67-year-old male who presented with concurrent ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction. Both patients went into cardiac arrest and showed signs of consciousness upon immediate initiation of CPR. This led to a state of confusion, as many of the team members were not aware of this phenomenon in both cases and were reluctant to continue CPR as it can cause confusion among healthcare providers and potentially lead to interruptions in life-saving measures. Given the potential impact of CPR-IC on resuscitation efforts, it may be beneficial for healthcare providers to undergo further education and training regarding this phenomenon and develop sedation guidelines specific to managing CPR-IC. The Emirates Health Services (EHS) could help improve outcomes and standardize practice. Only the former patient survived with a GCS of 15/15 after undergoing the needed interventions. Despite the death of the other patient, CPR-IC has been associated with improved survival in in-hospital cardiac arrest. Additionally, more research in this area could provide valuable insights into how best to recognize and manage CPR-IC in different clinical scenarios.