Family presence during resuscitation: A randomised controlled trial of the impact of family presence

Introduction: This study was undertaken to determine effects on relatives of family presence in an emergency resuscitation room during resuscitation. Methods: This study was undertaken using a randomised controlled trial using survey methodology. The setting of the study was the emergency department of a major tertiary referral teaching hospital in Queensland. Participants were relatives over 18 years of age, related to patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Relatives were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. The control group followed the established procedure of placement in the relatives' waiting room, while the experimental group was given the option to be present during the resuscitation with a supportive officer for assistance. Results: An association was found between those who were present (and their relative survived) and their belief that their presence was beneficial to the patient. Demographic data identified characteristics of the relatives. Conclusions: This work has identified that relatives find it beneficial to be present in the resuscitation room. Their presence helped with communication between staff and family, and helped relatives to cope with the situation. (C) 2005 College of Emergency Nursing Australasia Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.