[Family presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in children]

Abstract

Witnessing a cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a dramatic event for health care workers and for the relatives of those involved, especially for parents and relatives of children.

Method: A literature review was performed on MedLine, PubMed, Ebsco, with the following keywords: Family presence, Relatives, Parents presence, Pediatric Resuscitation, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Pediatric intensive care unit, to explore if parents should be allowed to witness or not and their need of support.

Results: Most paediatric guidelines favour the presence of relatives during CPR and the results of surveys are consistent in reporting that parents prefer to see what is happening to their child. The benefits for health care workers include an improvement of the relationship with family members, thus facilitating the flow of information and health education. Years of education and experience, together with specific protocols may help health care workers to accept the presence of relatives during critical events.