Five cycles of CPR, cardiac arrest, brain bleed: How doctors saved a 14-year-old after a devastating electrocution injury

In a case of advanced critical care and multidisciplinary coordination, doctors have treated and revived a 14-year-old boy who suffered a severe high-voltage electrocution injury that led to cardiac arrest and life-threatening neurological complications.


An adolescent was brought to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) after accidental electrocution from a live electrical connector wire attached to a water motor. During transport, the child developed cardiorespiratory arrest and underwent emergency endotracheal intubation and advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at an outside facility. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved after five cycles of CPR.

On arrival at the hospital, the child was admitted to the PICU in critical condition and initiated on mechanical ventilation. A structured multidisciplinary post–cardiac arrest care approach with neuroprotective strategies was promptly instituted, including sedation, seizure prophylaxis, hyperosmolar therapy, and targeted optimization of oxygenation, ventilation, and temperature control.

Neuroimaging revealed a focal left frontal subarachnoid haemorrhage, which was managed conservatively. The clinical course was further complicated by neurogenic pulmonary edema and myocardial dysfunction, both of which responded well to intensive supportive management. Continuous EEG monitoring did not reveal any electrographic seizures.

Despite the severity of the insult, the child showed progressive neurological and systemic recovery, likely attributable to early resuscitation, timely intensive care interventions, and a structured strategic multidisciplinary approach. Ventilatory support was successfully weaned by day 5 of PICU admission, and the patient was discharged in stable condition on day 7 with good neurological recovery.


Dr Lalitha A V, Consultant - Paediatrics, PICU – Incharge, Aster CMI Hospital said, “This case highlights how timely resuscitation and structured pediatric critical care can make a life-saving difference in severe electrocution injuries. The child arrived in an extremely critical condition following cardiac arrest, and our immediate priority was stabilization and protecting the brain and other vital organs from secondary injury. Dr Ananya, Consultant PICU further emphasized that with continuous monitoring, meticulous intensive care, and coordinated teamwork, we were able to achieve a positive neurological recovery.


Prof (Dr) N Karthik Nagesh, Program Director - Pediatric Centres of Excellence, Aster CMI Hospital added, “Electrical injuries in children can rapidly affect multiple organ systems, especially the heart, lungs, and brain. This case underlines the importance of advanced PICU infrastructure, early intervention, and multidisciplinary collaboration in managing complex pediatric emergencies. The child’s recovery is extremely encouraging and reflects the strength of comprehensive pediatric critical care.”

Dr Prashanth N, CEO Aster Hospitals said, “At Aster, we remain committed to delivering advanced, evidence-based emergency and critical care services for children and adults alike. The successful recovery of this young patient demonstrates the expertise of our multidisciplinary teams and the strength of our pediatric critical care capabilities. Cases like these reinforce the importance of rapid intervention, coordinated care, and access to advanced healthcare infrastructure.”

The case highlights the critical importance of early emergency response, post-cardiac arrest management, and coordinated multidisciplinary care in improving survival and neurological outcomes following severe electrical injuries in children. The collaborative efforts of the PICU, plastic surgery, rehabilitation, and nursing teams played a key role in the child’s recovery and successful discharge.