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Resuscitation decision making and older people
Irene Schofield1, Roger Watson
1Caledonian Research Centre for Nursing and Midwifery, Glasgow Caledonian University.
Nursing Older People
|July 26, 2002
Summary
Public expectations for resuscitation success are high, but outcomes often differ. This article addresses the need for improved nursing skills in guiding patients and families through resuscitation decisions.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Nursing Practice
- Patient Care
Background:
- Rising public expectations for resuscitation success contrast with clinical realities.
- Past resuscitation decisions have sometimes lacked standardized protocols, attracting media scrutiny.
- There is a need to align patient and family understanding with resuscitation outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the gap between public expectations and resuscitation outcomes.
- To address the historical ad hoc nature of resuscitation decision-making.
- To propose strategies for enhancing nurses' skills in guiding resuscitation decisions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on resuscitation outcomes and decision-making processes.
- Analysis of media reports concerning resuscitation practices.
- Discussion of ethical considerations in end-of-life care.
Main Results:
- Public perception of resuscitation success is often overly optimistic.
- Lack of standardized protocols can lead to inconsistent decision-making.
- Nurses play a critical role in facilitating informed consent for resuscitation.
Conclusions:
- Improving nurses' communication and decision-support skills is crucial.
- Standardized protocols and clear communication can better manage patient and family expectations.
- Ethical and evidence-based approaches are needed for appropriate resuscitation decisions.