If a patient begins to cough during chest compressions, what does this indicate?

Coughing during chest compressions often indicates a return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). This response suggests that the autonomic nervous system is beginning to regain function, allowing the patient to exhibit signs of life, such as coughing. Coughing is a reflex that typically occurs when the respiratory system is working to clear airways and is commonly seen when a patient regains consciousness or shows signs of improved respiratory function.

The presence of coughing is a positive sign in the context of resuscitation efforts, suggesting that the heart may have restarted and adequate blood flow has been re-established. This is a crucial indicator for providers, as it prompts the assessment of the patient's airway and circulation status.

In contrast, other options do not explain the act of coughing effectively in this scenario. For instance, bronchospasm refers to a narrowing of the airways, which would more likely cause wheezing rather than coughing. Gastric distention is associated with difficulty in ventilation and may lead to complications like aspiration, and does not involve active coughing. Atelectasis would result in collapsed lung areas leading to inadequate gas exchange but typically does not present with coughing as a primary symptom. Thus, the act of coughing during chest compressions is most clearly associated with the restoration of spontaneous