Supporting relatives and teams in resus practice

Question 1

Who often performs CPR in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest situations?

Answer 1

A close friend or relative.

Question 2

What do relatives perceive as advantages of being present during resuscitation?

Answer 2

• Helps come to terms with death
• Opportunity to speak to the dying person
• Avoids distress from separation
• Witnessing efforts made for the dying person
• Ability to touch and speak with the deceased.

Question 3

What are potential disadvantages for relatives being present during resuscitation?

Answer 3

• Distress from the resuscitation attempt
• May hinder staff physically or emotionally.

Question 4

What are some safeguards to adopt when involving relatives in resuscitation?

Answer 4

• Acknowledge the difficulty of the situation
• Explain choices regarding presence
• Provide clear explanations of the situation
• Ensure they understand they can leave and return.
• Ask them not to interfere but offer opportunities to touch the patient.

Question 5

What is important to provide to relatives during the waiting period after a death?

Answer 5

A suitable area for relatives to wait.

Question 6

How should bad news be communicated to relatives?

Answer 6

• Uncomplicated and honest approach
• Use simple words
• Allow periods of silence for processing.

Question 7

What emotional responses may relatives exhibit after receiving bad news?

Answer 7

• Acute emotional distress/shock
• Anger
• Denial/disbelief
• Guilt
• Catatony.

Question 8

Why is it important to prepare the relatives before they view the body?

Answer 8

To set expectations, especially if there are visible injuries.

Question 9

What should staff consider regarding religious requirements following a death?

Answer 9

The beliefs, values, and rituals of the patient and family.

Question 10

What is a key aspect of staff support after a resuscitation event?

Answer 10

Arrangements for staff to discuss issues with the team leader and team.

Question 11

What role can hospital chaplains or spiritual care teams play for families?

Answer 11

They provide strength and information, and support religious needs.

Question 12

What is the significance of allowing relatives to touch the deceased?

Answer 12

It helps them work through the grieving process.