Intermediate
Technical
IVT
return of spontaneous circulation
Pronunciation: ROSK
Also written as: ROSC — return of spontaneous circulation
Resumption of adequate heart rhythm and blood pressure during or after cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Full Definition
Return of spontaneous circulation represents the restoration of a palpable pulse and adequate blood pressure following cardiac arrest and resuscitation efforts. ROSC is a critical milestone in resuscitation that triggers post-cardiac arrest care protocols including targeted temperature management and neurologic monitoring. In surgical patients, achieving ROSC may require addressing reversible causes like tension pneumothorax or massive hemorrhage.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as ROSC in emergency and critical care documentation.
In Context
- "Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved after 12 minutes of CPR." — resuscitation documentation
- "Following ROSC, the patient was transferred to surgical ICU for post-arrest care." — transfer note
Also known as
ROSC
Contrasted with
cardiac arrest
asystole
Don't confuse with
pulse return
hemodynamic stability