Attitudes of Pediatric Nursing Staff Regarding Parental Presence During Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Abstract

This narrative review examines the attitudes of pediatric nursing staff toward parental presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), highlighting both international perspectives and findings from the Greek healthcare context. A thematic analysis of existing Greek and international literature was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), with studies selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria focusing on pediatric CPR, healthcare professionals' attitudes, and the presence of parents during resuscitation. The studies reviewed support the inclusion of parents during pediatric resuscitation, reporting emotional, ethical, and psychological benefits for families. Pediatric nurses, in particular, tend to be more supportive of parental presence compared to their counterparts in adult care. This reflects a stronger alignment with family-centered care models. However, significant barriers remain, including institutional resistance, lack of formal guidelines, and insufficient staff training, especially in Greece. We also found that the majority of nursing staff reported having no personal experience with the presence of family during resuscitation and expressed disagreement with allowing parents to be present. Concerns about team performance and parental distress are also reported, though these are often mitigated by clear communication, staff preparation, and structured support roles. Overall, parental presence during pediatric CPR offers meaningful benefits when implemented within a supportive institutional framework. Targeted education, culturally sensitive communication, and the empowerment of pediatric nurses are essential to facilitate this practice. Adopting evidence-based policies and enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration can further promote ethically sound and family-centered resuscitation care.

Keywords: crna clinical training; family-centered care; healthcare ethics; nurses' attitudes; nursing care; parental presence; pediatric cpr; pediatric nursing; resuscitation team.