The effects of family-witnessed resuscitation on health professionals

Abstract

Aim: To gain an understanding of the effects of family-witnessed resuscitation (FWR) on health professionals. Background: FWR has been the subject of an ongoing debate for almost 30 years. Historically, emergency departments (EDs) have excluded family members of a critically ill or injured patient from the treatment area during resuscitation. Methodology: A systematic literature search of six nursing-focused databases was undertaken using pertinent keywords. Only studies published in English, focused on ED staff and undertaken after 2007 (published up to 2017) were included. Findings: FWR is not commonly practised by health professionals. The four themes identified were: fear of adverse litigation; the importance of the role of the facilitator; lack of FWR policies in the workplace; and staff lack of knowledge and education regarding FWR, resulting in fear and stress. Conclusion: By implementing policies in the workplace, and having a facilitator to provide support and guidance to families, stress and anxiety can be greatly reduced. The implementation of educational programmes can increase staff awareness and knowledge surrounding the benefits of FWR