ABSTRACT Objective: To synthesize the best qualitative evidence regarding the perception of family members, patients and health professionals about family presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation and invasive procedures. Method: Systematic review with meta-synthesis performed in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, LILACS, MEDLINE, Embase and VHL. Articles published between 2010 and 2017 were included and evaluated with use of the Qualitative Data Extraction Instrument. Results: In total, were found 2,391 articles, out of which 26 were selected, and 24 were analyzed. The identified meta-theme was ‘A pendular perspective: different views on family presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation and invasive procedures’, which is supported by the following themes: Benefits resulting from family presence; Disadvantages and/or limiting factors of family presence; and Context: environmental, sociocultural and care factors influencing the perception of family presence. Conclusion: The perception of family members, patients and professionals about family presence is still controversial. The sensitization of these subjects can potentiate the practice by making it more systematized and qualified.