PROFESSIONAL NURSING SUPPORT FOR PATIENTS AND FAMILY MEMBERS IN PALLIATIVE CARE

Abstract

Professional nursing support for patients and families in Palliative Care (PC). Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence regarding nursing support directed at the patient-family dyad within the context of PC. Methodology: A qualitative bibliographical research based on adapted PRISMA guidelines, with a literature search conducted in March 2026 across the VHL (Virtual Health Library). Nineteen systematic reviews (2021–2026) and three normative documents (COFEN, Ministry of Health/PNCP, and ANCP) were selected and subjected to Bardin's Content Analysis. Results and Discussion: Three categories emerged: Instrumental/Technical Support, highlighting pain management and practices such as hypodermoclysis; Relational/Emotional Support, demonstrating empathetic communication, spiritual support, and grief interventions; and Institutional/Organizational Support, which debated the importance of the PNCP, care protocols, and the challenges of educational deficits and professional burnout. The findings indicate that clinical dexterity must coexist with soft technologies to mitigate therapeutic obstinacy and promote multidimensional comfort backed by bioethics. Conclusion: Nursing support is characterized as a bifocal practice, uniting technical rigor with human sensitivity. The study reinforces nursing autonomy and the need to strengthen both organizational structures and academic training to ensure human dignity in the face of end-of-life.