Informing relatives of non-surviving patients about research participation following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a prospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Currently, it is not common UK practice to actively inform relatives of non-surviving patients about enrolment in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) trials. However, in the US and elsewhere, researchers routinely notify relatives at the earliest opportunity. We assessed the process of writing to relatives of non-surviving patients enrolled in the Prehospital Optimal Shock Energy for Defibrillation (POSED) study.

Methods

This prospective, non-randomised cohort study was a sub-study of the POSED randomised controlled trial. Together with public and patient partners, we developed a condolence letter, minimising the burden of information whilst offering support and further information. Next of kin contact details were verified using two independent sources. Accepta

SUBMITTER: Pocock H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12605857 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature