First code, question about family notification

[blackvans1234]

Hey all, I'm just wondering if you can give me some clarity.

To put it shortly, I am a PCT / CNA, I was floated to another unit, the code was called, patient successfully resuscitated. I believe I overheard the Doc talking with a family member over the phone, but I didn't catch much of what he was saying. From what I heard, "She went into cardiac arrest, CPR was performed and she was successfully resuscitated...."

More info:

Pt was intubated and on a ventilator, necrotizing faciitis, possible sepsis?

The code was at about 630pm, I was floated to another unit at 730pm, so I didn't have time to ask questions to the staff about the prognosis, future for this patient, ''what now?", etc.

As I was leaving (1130PM), I saw that family arrived to see the patient. There were like six or seven people in the hallway.

Normally families don't visit at midnight, so I'm wondering what the deal is?

My assumption would be that maybe the outlook for this patient is no good, and they may discontinue life support or choose to have a DNR for this patient?

Or maybe just because of the uncertainty of her future they advised the family to see her.

So in your experience, why would a family be advised to come visit a patient after a code?

Thanks!

[Calabria, BSN, RN]

Our doctors will notify family members if a code seems imminent, or if there's an acute change in condition in their family member so that they are able to make plans accordingly to come and be with them.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

What you described could be any patient scenario of any patient. You absolutely notify the family of critical condition changes and it is usual and customary that the family members come to the hospital to be with their loved ones. ICU/critical care units usually have family members in their waiting area...especially the critical ones that the outcome appears to be poor so they can be with their family member.