Near Death Experience

An prospective observational study to interview patients who had near death experiences among those who had received intensive care unit intervention during admission in hematology ward.

This single-center observational study aims to describe the incidence of episodes of connected consciousness and disconnected consciousness (including near-death experience (NDE) and out-of-body experiences) in patients who survived a prolonged stay of at least 7 days in the intensive care unit (ICU) and who had at least one episode of pharmacological or non-pharmacological coma. The investigators are also investigating the risk factors related to these episodes of consciousness. A follow-up at six months aims to explore the long-term psychological implications of these episodes.

This observational study aims to describe the incidence of episodes of disconnected consciousness (including near-death experience (NDE)) and episodes of connected consciousness in patients admitted to the resuscitation room, who survived a critical condition and who meet at least one of these criteria during their stay in the resuscitation room: (1) deep sedation, (2) intubation, (3) cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or (4) (non-drug-induced) Glasgow Coma Scale score = 3. We also investigate the potential (neuro)physiological markers and biomarkers. In order to help determine the potential risk factors of such episodes, cognitive factors such as dissociative propensity are also investigated. Unexpected visual and auditory stimuli will be displayed. In addition, we assess the evolution of memory, as well as short- and long-term consequences on quality of life, anxiety, and attitudes towards care. Memory of patients who did not meet the above-mentioned criteria are also investigated. A group of 15 healthy participants will be invited to test the stimuli display. Finally, (neuro)physiological parameters of a subsample of dying patients are also investigated.