Nurses’ knowledge, preferences, practices and perceived barriers : family witnessed resuscitation

Abstract

Family witnessed resuscitation remains controversial, and nurses’ preferences affect policy related to what occurs at the bedside. Family witnessed resuscitation (FWR) has been supported by some physicians and nurses, but is not yet a widespread practice. The purpose of this study is to identify emergency room nurses’ knowledge, preferences, current practices, and perceived barriers in regards to FWR. This study is a replication of Madden and Condon’s (2007) study. The framework is the ENA guidelines (Madden & Condon). The study will take place at Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, Indiana. The anticipated sample will include 35 emergency nurses with more than 6 months experience in the ED, and nurses that have had the experience of bringing a family member to the bedside during a resuscitation effort. A questionnaire with 15 close ended questions based on the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) will be used. The survey will evaluate nurses’ knowledge, preferences, current practices, and perceived barriers related to FWR. Findings will provide information for policy development addressing FWR and serve in development of an educational program for nurses working in the ED on policies.