Near-death experiences after cardiac arrest: a scoping review
Joshua G Kovoor1,2,3,4,5, Sanjana Santhosh6, Brandon Stretton1,3,4
1University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
Discover Mental Health
|May 28, 2024
Summary
Near-death experiences (NDEs) can occur in over one-third of cardiac arrest patients. These profound events may lead to life changes, but clinical factors can influence outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Near-death experiences (NDEs) in cardiac arrest are poorly understood.
- These phenomena may have significant clinical implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize NDEs in cardiac arrest survivors.
- To synthesize existing research on NDE incidence and characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Scoping review of prospective studies on NDEs in cardiac arrest.
- Searched PubMed/MEDLINE up to July 2023, adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
- Qualitative and quantitative data synthesized; meta-analysis precluded by heterogeneity.
Main Results:
- 11 studies with interviews were included, reporting NDE incidence from 6.3% to 39.3%.
- Patient characteristics showed significant associations with NDE propensity.
- Reported NDE content often mirrored questionnaire language.
- Follow-up suggested positive life changes, but one study noted higher 30-day mortality in NDE patients.
Conclusions:
- NDEs may occur in over one-third of cardiac arrest patients.
- Lasting effects of NDEs are possible but may be confounded by clinical factors.
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