Near-death experiences in survivors of cardiac arrest: a preliminary observational study

In a Spanish multicenter study of 24 patients who survived cardiac arrest, only one patient (4.2%) reported a near-death experience as defined by a score of 7 or higher on the Greyson Near-Death Experience Scale. Most patients had no memories from the cardiac arrest period. The single NDE case showed mainly affective components. The study confirms that NDEs occur at a low rate consistent with previous international research, and the Greyson Scale is a useful tool for identifying them, though such recollections are rare. Larger studies are needed to explore associated factors and implications.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Background Near-death experiences (NDEs) have been increasingly studied due to their recurrent and structured nature in patients who survive cardiac arrest (CA). These experiences often include sensations of peace, out-of-body perceptions, or encounters with luminous presences. The Light Project was designed to replicate the seminal study by van Lommel et al. (The Lancet, 2001) in a Spanish clinical setting, exploring the prevalence of NDEs and their associated clinical and sociocultural factors. Objectives To determine the incidence of NDEs in patients resuscitated after CA, to describe their clinical and sociocultural characteristics, and to analyze their association with the Greyson Near-Death Experience Scale. Methods This observational, prospective, multicenter study included consecutive patients who survived CA and provided informed consent. Clinical variables related to the CA event, as well as sociodemographic and spiritual characteristics, were collected. The presence of NDEs was initially assessed through a structured interview. Patients reporting memories related to the CA period were subsequently evaluated using the Greyson Scale, considering NDEs when the score was ≥7 points. Results A total of 24 patients were included (mean age 65.9 years; 79.2% male). Most cardiac arrests occurred in-hospital, with ischemic heart disease being the most frequent etiology. Defibrillable rhythms predominated, and the mean duration of CA was 8.5 minutes. Most participants identified as Catholic, followed by atheists. Only two patients (8.3%) reported recollections related to the CA period and were assessed using the Greyson Scale. One patient scored 2 points, while one scored 7 points, meeting criteria for NDE, with predominance of affective components. Conclusions The incidence of NDEs in this preliminary cohort is consistent with international literature. The Greyson Scale is a useful standardized tool for identifying NDEs, although recollections are infrequently reported. Larger studies are required to identify associated factors and to further explore the clinical, ethical, and philosophical implications of these experiences.