FAMILY ORIENTATION IN PALLIATIVE CARE: CONTRIBUTIONS OF NURSING

Abstract

Introduction: Palliative care is an approach aimed at improving the quality of life of patients with life-threatening illnesses, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Families play a central role as caregivers, requiring guidance to manage end-of-life situations and reduce emotional and practical burden. Nursing professionals are key in this process, providing technical, emotional, and educational support to family members. Objective: To analyze the scientific literature on family guidance in palliative care, highlighting the contributions of nursing. Methodology: An integrative literature review with a qualitative approach was conducted, considering studies published between 2019 and 2025. Results and Discussion: Findings indicate that nursing actions go beyond clinical care, involving therapeutic communication, comfort promotion, practical skill teaching, and mediation between patient, family, and multidisciplinary team. Family coping strategies, social support networks, and spirituality contribute to resilience during terminal illness. However, gaps in professional training and institutional limitations challenge care effectiveness, highlighting the need for continuous education, supervision, and public policies ensuring equitable access to palliative care Family guidance in palliative care is essential for humanized assistance, enhancing patient autonomy, comfort, and quality of life, while providing emotional support to the family and reinforcing the strategic role of nursing in delivering comprehensive, ethical, and holistic care.