NURSES' EXPERIENCES IN CARING FOR CHILDREN WITH CANCER IN PEDIATRIC PALLIATIVE CARE

Abstract

This study analyzes the experiences of nurses in providing care to children with cancer in pediatric palliative care, highlighting challenges, coping strategies, and training needs. It is a bibliographic study with a qualitative approach and an exploratory-descriptive nature, conducted using databases such as SciELO, BVS, and Google Scholar. The results show that nurses face significant challenges, including gaps in academic training, lack of psychological preparation, structural limitations, and scarcity of resources, which compromise the quality of care. Additionally, the emotional impact resulting from frequent contact with suffering and death is emphasized, generating feelings of helplessness, insecurity, and overload. To deal with these situations, professionals adopt strategies such as emotional distancing, spirituality, family support, leisure activities, psychotherapy, and support from the multidisciplinary team. Effective communication and the pursuit of further qualification contribute to reducing stress and strengthening professional practice. Furthermore, there is a clear need for continuous training, with emphasis on developing communication skills, grief management, active listening, and emotional support. Technical improvement combined with humanization is essential to ensure comprehensive care for both the child and their family. It is concluded that, despite the relevance of the nurse’s role, gaps still persist that impact the quality of care. Therefore, it is essential to invest in training, institutional support, and strategies that promote more humane and qualified care. In this context, expanding continuing education policies, strengthening teamwork, and ensuring psychological support for professionals are crucial to help them cope with emotional demands. Valuing nurses and improving working conditions are key aspects in promoting quality of life in the workplace and ensuring safety in care delivery. Thus, investing in professional training and institutional support directly reflects on the care provided, contributing to a more sensitive, ethical, and patient- and family-centered practice.