Supporting Relatives

Question 1

Advantages of relatives being present during resus:

Answer 1

1. Can speak to dying pt.
2. Not distressed by being separated from pt.
3. Can see that everything possible was done for pt.
4. Helps them come to terms with reality of death
5. Can interact with deceased while body still warm

Question 2

Disadvantages of relatives being present during resus:

Answer 2

1. May be distressing
2. May be disturbed by memory of resus
3. May physically or emotionally hinder staff during resus

Question 3

How to involve relatives during resus:

Answer 3

1. Ensure introductions made & names of relatives known
2. Acknowledge difficulty of situation
3. Give simple, clear explanation of what was happened & what to expect in resus
4. Allow opportunity for relatives to witness resus
5. Explain that they will be looked after whether they witness resus or not
6. Able to leave & return at any time during resus
7. Ask not to interfere during resus
8. Offer opportunity to ask questions

Question 4

How to care for the recently bereaved?

Answer 4

1. Ensure early contact with 1 team member from the medical team
2. Suitable setting for relatives to wait
3. Break bad news smpathetically
4. Arrange viewing of body
5. Arrange religous/pastoral care
6. Arrange legal & pratical arrangements
7. Provide follow up support

Question 5

Method for breaking bad news:

SPIKES model

Answer 5

1. Setting - suitable, private
2. Perception - check perception of situation
3. Invitation - determine how much info known and how much desired
4. Knowledge - know medical facts of case
5. Emotions w/ empathy - explore emotions & use empathy
6. Summary & Support - provide options for support

Question 6

Framework tool used for staff debriefing:

STOP-5

Answer 6

1. Summarise the case
2. Things that went well
3. Opportunities to improve
4. Planning for next time / change
5. 5 min duration