ROLE OF THE NURSING PROFESSIONAL IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS – AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW STUDY

Abstract

Sexual violence against children and adolescents represents one of the most challenging issues in modern society. Among the professionals who work directly in various settings with victims of this type of violation is the nurse. The present study aimed to analyze the role of nursing professionals in the recovery of children and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence, highlighting their strategies of action and the main challenges faced in this context, based on scientific studies published on the topic over the last 10 years. Of the 161 studies identified in the databases used in this research (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science), only 6 met the defined eligibility criteria and were included in this review, which emphasize the central role of nurses in welcoming, identifying, and caring for children and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence, providing emotional support and appropriate referrals. Despite the positive impacts reported, there is a scarcity of specific studies on their role. The need for greater professional training, standardized protocols, and further research is highlighted in order to strengthen nursing practice in this complex and sensitive reality.