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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

ROSC

Also written as: ROSC — Return of Spontaneous Circulation

Return of Spontaneous Circulation following cardiac arrest and resuscitation efforts.

Full Definition

ROSC indicates the resumption of sustained perfusing cardiac rhythm following cardiac arrest. It is achieved when organized electrical activity returns with sufficient cardiac output to generate palpable pulses and measurable blood pressure. ROSC is a critical milestone in resuscitation efforts and marks the transition from active CPR to post-cardiac arrest care. In surgical critical care, ROSC may occur intraoperatively or in the ICU setting and requires immediate attention to optimize neurological outcomes and prevent re-arrest.

Usage

Usage note: Always use as an acronym in clinical documentation.

In Context

  • "ROSC was achieved after 12 minutes of high-quality CPR." — Code blue summary
  • "Post-ROSC care focused on targeted temperature management and hemodynamic optimization." — ICU admission note

Also known as

Return of Spontaneous Circulation

Contrasted with

cardiac arrest asystole

Don't confuse with

pulse return cardiac output

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