Nursing team perception of oncological palliative care: A phenomenological study

Abstract

Introduction: This article focuses on revealing the phenomenon of perception of the nursing care given to patients undergoing palliation before death. Aims: To understand the perceptions of nursing team members of palliative care in oncology from the phenomenological perspective of Maurice Merleau-Ponty; To indicate the implications of this perception for nursing practice. Method: A descriptive study with a quantitative approach based on the theoretical and methodological perspective of Merleau-Ponty's phenomenology. The technique of open interviews was used, with 21 nurses from a private cancer care institution. Results: Palliative care presents a challenge for the nursing team, as it involves an intersubjective meeting between professionals and the patient in a terminal condition. Comfort measures constitute the foundations for excellent, humanized care. Conclusion: We emphasize the importance of valuing the humanity of patients through actions aimed at the humanization of health practices.