CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES OF ONCOLOGY NURSING IN THE FACE OF COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer, a condition of disordered cell growth, is one of the leading causes of global mortality, with a constant increase in incidence. Despite medical advances, significant challenges are faced, affecting not only patients but also their families. Therapeutic communication is essential, but many health professionals lack skills in this area, which can lead to avoiding sensitive interactions. Nurses play a crucial role, not only in providing physical care, but also in effective communication and emotional support. Oncology nursing, with its personalized approach, promotes humanization in care, contributing to a better quality of life for patients and their families. Objective: To analyze the main challenges and perspectives of oncology nursing, in communication with patients and their families. Methodology: This is an integrative review, guided by the question: What were the challenges and perspectives in oncology nursing communication with cancer patients and their families? The review was carried out through the BVS, using the databases: Scielo, Lilacs, Medline and BDENF, with the controlled descriptors in health: cancer, communication and nursing, which were combined with the Boolean descriptors “and” and “OR”. Scientific articles published in the last five years were chosen, focusing on the years 2019 to 2024, which were complete and freely available in full, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Duplicate articles and those that did not meet the predefined objective were removed. All information contained in the articles chosen for this study was presented in tables and analyzed in light of the relevant literature. Results and discussion: Cancer results from genetic mutations that lead to the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells. It is the second leading cause of death globally, with approximately 704 thousand new cases annually in Brazil, where the most common types include non-melanoma skin, prostate and breast cancer. Diagnosis involves clinical and complementary exams, while screening helps to reduce morbidity and mortality. Nursing Care Systematization (NCS) is essential for the care of cancer patients, allowing accurate diagnoses and appropriate interventions, especially in pain management and emotional support. Conclusion: Therefore, the relevance of comprehensive nursing care for cancer patients, emphasizing the importance of pain management and emotional support to improve their quality of life.