Resuscitation discussion experiences of patients hospitalized in a coronary care unit.
OBJECTIVE
To learn about patients' feelings, beliefs, and values concerning resuscitation and to suggest the role for nurses in discussion of resuscitation options with patients.


METHODS
Prospective, qualitative, phenomenological.


METHODS
Midwestern teaching hospital.


METHODS
Ten patients hospitalized in a coronary care unit. Age range was 67 to 89 years.


RESULTS
Participants described beliefs about life-sustaining interventions, decision making, and patient and family involvement, nurses' and physicians' roles in the decision-making process, and desire to know the truth about their health care options. Subjects also offered definitions of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, resuscitation, and code in their own words.


CONCLUSIONS
This study suggests that decision-making opportunities are important to patients. Because patients frequently feel comfortable discussing their feelings with nurses, nurses have the opportunity to initiate discussion of sensitive issues with patients.
Larson
D E
DE
Lutheran Hospital, LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001290:Attitude; D003325:Coronary Care Units; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D010358:Patient Participation; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012151:Resuscitation / Q000523:psychology*