A Literature Review Examining the Barriers to the Implementation of Family Witnessed Resuscitation in the Emergency Department

Caring for patients in the Emergency Department (ED) who are near death, often in tragic circumstances, is challenging for all concerned where difficult ethical decisions are required regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The care of bereaved relatives is equally as important as that of the dying patient, with the care provided during this time significantly impacting the family ’s grieving process [34]. Since the 1980s the concept of Family Witnessed Resuscitation (FWR) has been practiced internationally within healthcare settings, prior to which families were usually prevented from being present during CPR [4].
Source: International Emergency Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research