NURSING CARE FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH RESPIRATORY SEQUELAE OF LONG COVID: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze nursing care provided to older adults with respiratory sequelae resulting from long COVID. An integrative literature review was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE and SciELO databases in September 2026, considering original articles published between 2020 and 2026 in Portuguese and English. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 studies comprised the sample, and their findings underwent descriptive and thematic analysis. The results revealed dyspnea, persistent cough, pulmonary abnormalities, and reduced exercise tolerance, associated with impaired functional capacity, autonomy, and quality of life. Regarding nursing care, clinical assessment, symptom monitoring, health education, guidance for patients and families, and multidisciplinary coordination were highlighted. Difficulties related to fragmented care, professional training, and the absence of specific protocols were also identified. It was concluded that nursing follow-up should integrate the assessment of respiratory manifestations with the functional and support needs of older adults, promoting continuous and individualized care.