Pediatric Resuscitation, Parental Presence, and Provider Perspective

Abstract

Background Varying opinions and practices exist about parental presence during a pediatric resuscitation. In addition, there is a paucity of literature that investigates the perspectives of health care providers about the efficacy of parental presence in these situations. Objectives The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of the perspectives of emergency health care providers about parental presence during pediatric resuscitation. Methods This pilot study surveyed emergency health care providers about their opinions of parental presence during pediatric resuscitation. All participants were given a survey with closed- and open-ended questions. Data analysis included descriptive statistics for the demographic data and qualitative analysis for the open-ended responses. Results A total of 52 emergency services personnel completed the survey. Of the physician respondents, 78.2% (n = 18) were opposed to parental presence during pediatric resuscitation. Common reasons for opposition included the lack of education, interpersonal team communication skills or experience, and discussion concerning end-of-life issues. Discussion Utilization of formal education and simulation for parental presence during resuscitation could be helpful for increasing providers’ comfort levels with parental presence.