Educational Interventions to Improve Support for Family Presence During Resuscitation: A Systematic Review of the Literature.
BACKGROUND
Family presence during resuscitation (FPDR) remains controversial among nurses. Individual studies have shown educational interventions can improve support for FPDR; however, a systematic review of the literature has not been performed to appraise and synthesize the evidence.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this systematic review was to appraise and synthesize studies conducted to test the effect of education on nurses' and providers' support for FPDR.


METHODS
Electronic searches of CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PubMed were performed. The PRISMA flow diagram and predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to guide article selection. Articles selected for inclusion were evaluated for rigor in study design, sample, setting, and data collection and analysis.


RESULTS
Sixteen articles met eligibility criteria. Study findings demonstrated educational interventions can improve support for FPDR, as well as intent to offer it as an option. Methodological limitations of existing research and a lack of comparative studies render the optimal approach (classroom, simulation, or online) to FPDR education unknown.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurse educators should consider implementing educational interventions to improve nurses' support for FPDR and prepare them to implement it in clinical practice. More research on FPDR educational interventions is needed to be able to provide specific guidance on optimal approaches to FPDR education.
Kelly A. Powers, PhD, RN, CNE, is assistant professor at the School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Dr Powers' research focuses on family presence during resuscitation. She teaches baccalaureate level courses on professional practice and nursing research, and she chairs Doctor of Nursing Practice scholarly projects.
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D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D005190:Family; D006801:Humans; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D012151:Resuscitation; D014789:Visitors to Patients