• Samantha DeWitt.
• Emergency Department, Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center, Danville, Kentucky.
• J Emerg Med. 2015 Oct 1; 49 (4): 500-2.

BackgroundThere have been several studies published regarding family-witnessed resuscitation (FWR), but fewer studies regarding its effectiveness. In FWR, family members are invited to be present during resuscitation efforts of a loved one. This practice is recognized and approved by the Emergency Nurses Association.DiscussionFWR is increasingly gaining attention, but is not without controversy. This practice is not widely accepted by hospital staff due to fear of legal claims, prolonging futile resuscitative efforts, and violent or abusive reactions from family members. However, there may be several positive factors in performing FWR, including better mental health outcomes for family members and improved satisfaction of family members.SummaryThis article represents my professional opinion on the implication and professional recommendation of instituting FWR as standard of care. Education regarding the positive aspects of FWR is urgently needed to improve staff acceptance and promote policies to incorporate the procedure into practice.Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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