Nurses During Resuscitation

Resuscitation is defined as an “attempt to restore patients’ vital signs by mechanical, physiological and pharmacological means in emergency situations such as cardiac or respiratory arrest” (Leung & Chow, 2012). Families could benefit emotionally and spiritually because they will understand what it took to save their loved one. According to Guzzetta, “only 5% of critical care units in the United States, 8% in Canada, and 7% in Europe have written policies that allow family presence” (Guzzetta, 2016), despite approval. The Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) defines patient-centered care competency as “recogniz[ing] the patient or designee as the source of control and full partner in providing compassionate and coordinated care based on respect for the patient’s preferences, values, and needs” (QSEN, 2014).

This competency impacts one’s personal nursing practice by being knowledgeable about the hospital policies concerning this matter. When a family questions if they can be present, the nurse should be able to explain to the family members what may happen during the resuscitation. The nurse should educate the family as to what would be expected of them and not interrupt the health care team as they do their job. Potential complications

This also strengthens communication by building a connection with the family. A connection of the nurse understanding the point of view of the family and the patient. The connection is what ultimately benefits the patient because problems can be decreased. The nurse can help the family cope with grieving due to them having a better understanding that all measures were taken during resuscitation. Nurses will do greater good if they are “meeting psychosocial needs in a time of crisis” which in turn “exemplifies care driven by the needs of patients and their families” (Guzzetta,