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Lightning strike cardiac arrest — DipIMC MCQ

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HardResuscitationLightning strike cardiac arrestDipIMC

A 16-year-old is struck by lightning at an outdoor event and is apnoeic with no central pulse. Several bystanders are nearby with minor burns. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Start resuscitation on the apnoeic pulseless patient and request additional resources

Lightning strike can cause respiratory and cardiac arrest with potential survival if ventilation and CPR are started promptly. The patient does not retain electrical charge once the strike has passed, assuming scene safety is established. In lightning incidents, reverse triage may prioritise apnoeic patients because minor injuries often survive. The pearl is that early ventilation can be decisive after lightning-induced respiratory arrest.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; Resuscitation Council UK Special Circumstances Guidelines 2025