E-Thesis 115 views 185 downloads
Examining the Effects of Bereavement on Emotionally Close Individuals Following a Failed Resuscitation Attempt After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Mixed Methods Approach / Rhian Lewis
Swansea University Author: Rhian Lewis
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.68902
Abstract
Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OOHCA) is a critical emergency where NHS ambulance trusts and national campaigns strive to minimise morbidity and mortality. However, the psychological burden on loved ones who witness or participate in resuscitation attempts is often overlooked amidst the focus on pa...
| Published: |
Swansea, Wales, UK
2025
|
|---|---|
| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Bennett, P. ; Dienes, K. |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa68902 |
| Abstract: |
Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OOHCA) is a critical emergency where NHS ambulance trusts and national campaigns strive to minimise morbidity and mortality. However, the psychological burden on loved ones who witness or participate in resuscitation attempts is often overlooked amidst the focus on patient outcomes. This thesis explores the emotional and psychological impact on emotionally close individuals involved in failed resuscitation attempts during OOHCA. Using a mixed-methods approach, the findings reveal that witnessing a failed resuscitation attempt significantly increases the risk of Complicated Grief (CG) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Those who do not attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) are particularly vulnerable to poor grief trajectories and higher levels of self-blame. Attempting CPR, even when unsuccessful, can mitigate the longer-term psychological impact, shaping healthier grief trajectories. The qualitative analysis highlights themes such as 'Griefmentia,' describing the cognitive and emotional burden experienced, which hinders healthy adaptation to loss. These findings underscore the profound emotional and cognitive challenges faced by relatives, where the suddenness and finality of loss intertwine with trauma, amplifying the need for holistic care. Promoting bystander CPR through national campaigns is critical. Messaging should balance the broader benefits of CPR with acknowledgment of the potential emotional burden on bystanders. Education should empower individuals, reduce guilt, and encourage proactive responses. Early transdiagnostic interventions may help to reduce long-term psychological distress and benefit healthcare systems by lowering costs. This research contributes valuable insights into the intersection of grief and trauma in OOHCA, emphasising the need for tailored bereavement care and service evaluations to improve support strategies. Addressing these challenges in clinical practice and public health initiatives is essential for reducing emotional distress and enhancing well-being among those affected by sudden cardiac death. In essence, this thesis underscores the importance of integrating emotional and psychological support into the broader efforts championed by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), enhancing the holistic care of individuals affected by cardiac emergencies. |
|---|---|
| Keywords: |
Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest; Grief; Bereavement; Trauma; Post-Traumatic Stress; Complicated Grief; Sudden Death; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Funders: |
British Heart Foundation (FS/13/39/30370) |