“…Numerous recent studies have supported the option of family presence, showing that there are potential benefits to both patients and family members (Doyle et al 1987, Meyers et al 2000, Eichhorn et al 2001, Tsai 2002, Ellison 2003, Grice et al 2003, MacLean et al 2003, Marrone & Fogg 2003, Benjamin et al 2004, Mangurten et al 2005, Duran et al 2007, Fulbrook et al 2007a, Mian et al 2007, Mcmahon-Parkes et al 2009). The benefits include reassuring them that everything was being done for the patient (MacLean et al 2003, Fulbrook et al 2007a); providing emotional support for patients and families (Ellison 2003, MacLean et al 2003; helping families to make decisions about resuscitation (MacLean et al 2003); providing a positive experience for patients, families and staff; and facilitating closure and the grieving process (MacLean et al 2003). Guidelines from professional bodies (American Heart Association 2005, Emergency Nurses Association 2005, Fulbrook et al 2007b) recommend that healthcare providers offer the option of family presence during resuscitation and invasive procedures.…”