Background: Studies indicate that both patients and nurses are positive to have relatives present at the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) situation. They see relatives as a resource and support, and also that the afterward crisis management may be facilitated. Routine should be created for the nurse to offer the relatives to attend and that it will become a natural part of CPR situation.

Aim: To illustrate the experiences of close relatives attending cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Method: A literature study with qualitative approach. Seven articles were reviewed and analyzed according to content analysis method.

Results: We found that relatives appreciated and felt it was important to attend the CPR-situation. They found it easier to move on after the incident, especially if the patient died. They wanted to be sure that everything that could be done also was done. The feeling that their presence in some way protected their dear ones from danger and harm was also important. Honest information was considered essential and the relatives appreciated the efforts and care that the healthcare personal gave their relatives.

Conclusions: The vast majority of relatives to patients undergoing CPR choose to feel that it's important to be present at the CPR. Based on this knowledge, further work can lead to create routines concerning relatives' wishes to attend CPR situations.