A retrospective, exploratory descriptive study looking at the perceptions of people who have survived cardiopulmonary resuscitation towards family presence during resuscitation.

Abstract

The purpose of this research proposal is to explore the perceptions of people who have survived a cardiopulmonary resuscitation towards family presence during resuscitation. By carrying out an extensive literature review this gap in the literature has been identified. The study will work to establish patients understanding of the term family witnessed resuscitation, retrospectively explore the thoughts, feelings and opinions of patients in relation to family witnessed resuscitation and attempt to gain a clearer understanding of the emotional and psychological effects that family witnessed resuscitation has on patients who have been involved in such events. Approximately 12-15 participants will be invited to partake in an unstructured interview which in which they will recall their experience of family witnessed resuscitation allowing qualitative data to be gathered. This study will then use an exploratory-descriptive design to present the findings back. It is hoped the results of this research will then be used to help create clearer, more holistic guidelines for clinical areas which will advise best practice and inform staff of how to facilitate this.