International journal of nursing studies
-
Multicenter Study
The views and preferences of resuscitated and non-resuscitated patients towards family witnessed resuscitation: a qualitative study.
A number of international studies have explored the views of family members and healthcare professionals on the concept of family witnessed resuscitation (FWR). In contrast the perspective and preferences of patients have been under-researched, particularly in relation to those who have survived resuscitation. ⋯ The study provides a unique understanding of patient preferences of FWR and some of their views begin to contest arguments in the literature. Patients' perspectives suggest both relatives and they themselves benefit in different ways. Although participants recognised that family members had emotional, informational and proximity needs, these had to be balanced with allowing the resuscitation team to manage the clinical emergency and make decisions. It is also evident that not all patients wish their families to be present. Healthcare professionals should therefore strive to identify the wishes of patients and relatives in respect to FWR and facilitate the presence of loved ones as appropriate. Further research into the area is still required.