Family presence during resuscitation: a narrative review of the practices and views of critical care nurses

Abstract

Background

The option of family presence during resuscitation was first presented in the late 1980s. Discussion and debate about the pros and cons of this practice has led to an abundant body of international research.

Aim

To determine critical care nurses’ experiences of, and support for family presence during adult and paediatric resuscitation and their views on the positive and negative effects of this practice.

Methods

A narrative literature review of primary research published 2005 onwards. The search strategy comprised an electronic search of three bibliographic databases, supplemented by exploration of a web-based search engine and hand-searching.

Results

Twelve studies formed the review. Research primarily originated from Europe. The findings were obtained from a moderately small number of nurses, and their views were mostly based on conjecture. Among the factors influencing family presence during resuscitation were dominant concerns about harmful effects. There was a noticeable absence of compliance with recommended guidelines for practice, and the provision of a unit protocol or policy to assist decision-making.

Conclusion

A commitment to family-centred care, educational intervention and the uptake of professional guidance are recommended evidence-informed strategies to enhance nurses’ support for this practice in critical care.