Family witnessed resuscitation - experience and attitudes of German intensive care nurses.

AIM

To explore German intensive care nurses' experiences and attitudes toward family witnessed resuscitation (FWR).

BACKGROUND

The subject of FWR has fuelled much controversy among health professionals. Typically studies involving European critical and cardiac nurses' under-represent the perspective of individual countries. Arguably research exploring the experiences and attitudes of nurses by country may expand understanding and embrace cultural values.

DESIGN

Descriptive survey.

METHODS

Three hundred and ninety-four German intensive care nurses attending a conference were invited to complete a 36-item questionnaire on their experiences and attitudes towards FWR. Participants were also invited to share, in writing, other thoughts relevant to the study. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 166 (42.1%) questionnaires were returned completed. Seventy participants had experiences with family members being present and for 46 (65.7%) these were negative. Participants (68%) did not agree that family members should have the option to be with loved ones during resuscitation. Over half (56.0%) were concerned that family presence may adversely influence staff performance during resuscitation procedures. There was a lack of certainty about the outcomes of the practice, although 61% agreed that family presence could facilitate better understanding among relatives. Qualitative responses where characterized by four broad themes relating to individualized decision-making, supporting families, threats of violence and family involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

German intensive care nurses have guarded attitudes towards FWR because of their experiences and concerns for the well-being of relatives and staff. Introducing this topic within nursing curricula, as part of resuscitation training and by wider professional debate will help challenge and resolve practitioner concerns and objections.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Health professionals have anxieties about possible consequences of FWR, strategies involving education and simulation training may improve attitudes.