Should families be present during resuscitations?

Abstract

Study objectives: We determine opinions about the presence of family members during resuscitation of loved ones. Methods: This was a descriptive survey of a convenience sample of adults presenting to a suburban emergency department (ED). We used a standardized collection of demographics, and adults were given a multiple-choice questionnaire concerning their opinions and wishes about the presence of family members during resuscitation of their loved ones. The outcome was responses to questions. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and χ 2 tests. Results: Four hundred eighty-two adults were surveyed. Mean age was 37.5 years (SD 13.0 years), 59% were female participants, 61% were white, and 82% had at least high school education. Twenty-five percent of those surveyed had cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, and 15% worked at a health care facility; 32% had witnessed CPR. Of those surveyed, roughly three quarters would prefer to be present at their own family member's resuscitation, and 64% would want a family member present during their resuscitation, even though many thought that their presence would increase the anxiety of the staff (60%) and interfere with the resuscitation (71%). Most of those surveyed thought that they should be present only after performance of invasive procedures. Only 30% believed that the presence of family members violated the patient's confidentiality and privacy, and most thought it was ethical (68%) and the family's right (70%). The presence of family members during CPR was believed to increase professionalism yet prolong resuscitative and heroic efforts. Opinions were evenly split about psychologic risks and benefits to those witnessing their loved one's resuscitation. Most of those surveyed recommended adding patient's future wishes about the presence of family members during CPR to living wills and health care proxies. Previous CPR training and presence at resuscitations did not affect the opinions of those surveyed. Conclusion: Most surveyed adults support the presence of family members during resuscitation of their loved ones.