Resuscitation-induced consciousness: clinical, philosophical, ethical, and legal aspects.
Resusc Plus September 29, 2025 Zohar Lederman, Emmanuel Hei-Lok (e.h.l.) Cheung, Joe Yen Fong Lau et al. 1 citation
During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), some patients show signs of consciousness such as eye opening, limb movement, or even verbal responses, a phenomenon termed resuscitation-induced consciousness (RIC). This abstract outlines the clinical, philosophical, ethical, and legal dimensions of RIC. Clinically, RIC can complicate resuscitation efforts and may require sedation. Philosophically, it raises questions about the nature of consciousness during near-death states. Ethically, it challenges assumptions about patient experience and suffering during CPR. Legally, it may affect decisions about resuscitation and the definition of death. The authors argue that RIC demands interdisciplinary attention to improve patient care and understanding.