Parental Presence During Pediatric Resuscitation in Emergency and Intensive Care Settings: A Scoping Review

The discussion on family presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has gained prominence in recent decades, driven by the consolidation of the Patient- and Family-Centered Care (PFCC) model, which recognizes the family as an integral part of the therapeutic process, particularly in critical situations (Stewart, 2019). Despite conceptual advances, clinical practice remains marked by institutional resistance and uncertainties among healthcare professionals, who fear potential interference in care delivery, emotional impact on relatives, and legal implications (Leske et al., 2017; Mark, 2020). Scientific evidence shows that such concerns do not always materialize. In fact, when properly guided and supported, family presence can facilitate the grieving process, provide psychological comfort, and reinforce the perception that every possible effort was made on behalf of the patient (Leske et al., 2017; McAlvin & Carew-Lyons, 2014). Furthermore, parents and relatives often express the wish to be present during CPR, reporting that such participation supports acceptance of loss and offers an opportunity for connection with their loved one in their final moments (Ghavi et al., 2022; Stewart, 2019). In pediatric contexts in particular, the absence of clear institutional protocols regarding parental presence during resuscitation contributes to arbitrary practices, often determined by the team’s stance rather than by the best interests of the child or family (Ghavi et al., 2022). Parental needs go beyond mere visual access to the procedure; they encompass honest communication, emotional support, and acknowledgment of their role as active participants in care (Stewart, 2019). Exploring this issue from an integrative perspective is therefore essential to identify scientific evidence that can underpin more humanized institutional policies, as well as to promote safe and respectful practices. Generating systematic knowledge on the impacts of family presence during CPR can help improve critical care and strengthen the commitment to patient and family dignity.