Resuscitation, Family Presence During

[Page 904]Family presence during resuscitation is defined as the involvement of one or more family members during resuscitative efforts for a loved one. It includes being present in the room to witness resuscitation, either at a remote distance or at the bedside where one may even touch the patient. Family members include relatives as well as significant others with whom the patient shares an established relationship. Although many hospitals have developed protocols, there is still significant controversy about its value and concerns that family members will interfere with resuscitation or add stress on staff.