citation (CPR) (Emergency, 2001). This was in recognition that the family plays a role, along with healthcare professionals, in patient care. However, since 1993, the ENA has found that very few emergency departments have a written policy for the presence of family members during CPR and invasive procedures, even though several studies have shown that the presence of family during these procedures gives them the assurance of knowing everything possible was being done for their loved one; helps maintain the patient-family relationship; relieves anxiety and fear; brings closure to the family on the patient's death; and facilitates the grieving process. Patients indicated that having their family present gives them comfort, helps them with pain control and coping, and reminds healthcare workers that the patient was a person with a family, deserving of dignity and respect (Emergency, 2001; Sanford, Pugh and Warren, 2002, 61-66).
The major objections to family presence have been: increased stress on healthcare workers if family are present; fear that events may be too traumatic for the family to witness; clinical effectiveness may might be impeded; family members may become overemotional and out of control; emergency rooms are already too crowded; and the increased risk of liability (Emergency, 2010; Sanford, Pugh and Warren, 2002, 61-66). However, family members who have undergone such experiences say they would do it again, and appear to suffer no adverse psychological consequences.
The ENA position supports the option of family presence during invasive procedures and CPR (Emergency, 2001). It supports further research related to their presence in these situations and the impact it has on family members, the patient, and on healthcare profesrionals. It supports the development and dissemination of educational resources for emergency department personnel, and the public, in relation to policies, practices, and programs whi...