Prediction of outcome after resuscitation in a case of electrocution.
Electrical shocks commonly cause widespread acute and delayed tissue damage. Cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory arrest are the most life-threatening complications in the acute phase. Prediction of outcome after cardiopulmonary resuscitation is usually based on neurological findings compatible with anoxic encephalopathy. This report describes a case of electrocution followed by cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Although neurological signs on admission pointed towards severe brain injury, the patient fully recovered and was able to resume the level of cognitive functioning prior to the accident.
Veneman
T F
TF
Department of Intensive Care and Clinical Toxicology, University Hospital Utrecht, The Netherlands.
van Dijk
G W
GW
Boereboom
E
E
Joore
H
H
Savelkoul
T J
TJ
D000328:Adult; D016887:Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation; D004556:Electric Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D004562:Electrocardiography; D015600:Glasgow Coma Scale; D006801:Humans; D002534:Hypoxia, Brain / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011379:Prognosis; D016896:Treatment Outcome