Survival Following High-Voltage Electrical Injury with Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Rapid ROSC and Full Recovery in a Resource-Limited Setting: A Case Report

Background High-voltage electrical injuries are life-threatening emergencies that can lead to immediate cardiac arrest, most commonly from ventricular fibrillation (VF). Rapid recognition and intervention are critical to improving outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings. Case Presentation We report the case of a 22-year-old previously healthy male who sustained a high-voltage electrical burn at a worksite located approximately 100 meters from the hospital. He arrived at the Emergency Department unresponsive, pulseless, and in agonal respiration. Cardiac monitoring revealed VF. Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) protocols were initiated, including two defibrillation shocks. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved after three CPR cycles. The patient was intubated, monitored in the ED, and later transferred to the ICU, where he had an uneventful recovery and was extubated on day five. He was ultimately discharged with full neurological recovery. Discussion This case highlights several key points: the importance of early defibrillation in shockable rhythms such as VF, the potential for favorable outcomes even after prolonged resuscitation efforts, and the role of comprehensive post-cardiac arrest ICU care. It also demonstrates that with rapid response and adherence to ACLS protocols, survival with full recovery is achievable—even in resource-limited settings. Conclusion Early recognition, timely defibrillation, and structured post-resuscitation care can result in complete recovery from electrical injury-induced cardiac arrest. This case reinforces the critical role of immediate intervention and multidisciplinary care in improving outcomes in low resource environments.