Acute stress symptoms following cardiac arrest: Result of a frightening near-death experience

Psychiatry Research Case Reports 2026 Open access

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Authors: Manuel Pereira Herrera, Sarah Lois Williams, Robert C. Reisler, Joseph Perez, Adriana Fitzsimmons
DOI: 10.1016/j.psycr.2026.100311
Cited by: 0
References: 13

Abstract

We present a case involving a 74-year-old male patient in cardiac arrest who had a frightening near-death experience (NDE) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) attempts that lasted approximately 5 minutes. The patient developed acute stress symptoms and moderate-to-severe insomnia, which responded rapidly to validation and education concerning the phenomenon of NDEs, in conjunction with melatonin. This case illustrates the importance for clinicians of asking survivors of cardiac arrest whether they experienced an NDE and demonstrates the utilization of effective strategies for the reduction of resulting acute stress symptoms.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs Cardiac Arrest and Resuscitation Palliative Care and End-of-Life Issues

Publication details

Journal / source
Psychiatry Research Case Reports
Volume
5
Issue
1
Pages
100311–100311
Publication date
14 February 2026
Language
EN