Prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation with preservation of cerebral function in an elderly patient with asystole after electroconvulsive therapy

Abstract

This case report describes a patient who became asystolic after electroconvulsive therapy. The report describes the prolonged resuscitative events that lasted 54 minutes and discusses the effectiveness of chest compressions and the importance of monitoring the acid-base balance. The report also stresses the importance of being able to establish effective cardiac pacing in this patient. The updated resuscitation guidelines published by the American Heart Association are also discussed.