Experiences and needs of family members following sudden cardiac death: A meta-synthesis

Objective

This meta-synthesis of qualitative studies aimed to explore the experiences and needs of family members of victims of sudden cardiac death.

Design

A meta-synthesis was conducted.

Data sources

Five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) were searched from establishment to May 2024. From initial searches with essential keywords (sudden cardiac death, family members, and qualitative studies), 3021 articles were retrieved. There were eight studies in the meta-synthesis, selected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Review methods

We evaluated the quality of the included studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme-Qualitative Research Checklist.

Results

Eight studies from six countries reported on the experiences and needs of family members who had lost someone to sudden cardiac death, and five analytical themes were synthesized: negative emotional reaction, finding cause of death, rebuilding life, meaning reconstruction and need for support. These experiences and needs fuse with each other and are relevant to the health and future of the family members.

Conclusion

Negative emotional reaction is a necessary process for family members dealing with sudden cardiac death, and rebuilding life is a challenge that family members must face. In the process of family members rebuilding normal life, finding the cause of death is the foundation, and meaning reconstruction is the core. Many of the needs faced by these family members are not well met, and policymakers and bereavement teams should provide comprehensive and personalized interventions for them.