Effective resuscitation by nurses: perceived barriers and needs.

Nurses work in a variety of clinical settings. Some of these areas involve care of patients with acute illnesses while others do not. No matter in which setting a nurse works, the possibility exists that he or she will participate in the resuscitation of a patient. When patients face a life-threatening event such as cardiopulmonary arrest, they rely on the competence and skills of healthcare professionals. Because nurses are often the healthcare providers closest to the bedside and the first to respond to patients' needs, their knowledge and skills need to be optimal and their performance proficient.