Nurses' attitudes toward family presence during resuscitative efforts and invasive procedures

This study explored variables influencing hospital nurses' and ENA members' attitudes and beliefs about family presence during resuscitative or invasive procedures, using Ajzen and Fishbein's theory of reasoned action.

Two hundred eight hospital nurses and New Jersey ENA members completed the 13-item Family Presence Support Staff Assessment Survey, which is designed to identify the health care practitioner's attitude toward family presence during resuscitation and/or invasive procedures. In addition, 6 open-ended questions elicited respondents' perceptions of system barriers and personal beliefs about family presence.

Pearson correlations showed significant relationships between attitude toward family presence and (1) educational preparation (r =.216, P <.01), (2) type of certification (r =.216, P <.01), and (3) area of specialization (r = -.234, P <.01). Education, specialty certification, professional designation (registered nurse or licensed practical nurse), and specialty area were significant predictors of positive attitudes toward family presence (R(2) =.096, df = 5, P <.001).

Qualitative findings revealed that personal, organizational, and social factors influenced attitudes of nurses toward family presence.