Only: You never actually die, you just pass out. At least the german description makes it clear that you faint, not die.
So the DF probably slaps a bucket of water in your face to wake you up - funny image though... a guy, with a bucket of water standing at the entrance of each dungeon in case his services are needed "Oh, another one whos actually already done for... *splash*"

Probably the way of the devs cheating not having to cheat death :P