EMOTIONAL CARE DURING CANCER TREATMENT: THE ROLE OF NURSING IN ENSURING THE PATIENT'S WELL-BEING

Abstract

 This article sought to analyze the role of nursing in promoting the mental health of cancer patients, highlighting welcoming strategies, humanized communication, early identification of emotional disorders and interdisciplinary action. The methodology used consisted of a literature review, based on scientific studies published in national databases, which address the relationship between cancer, psychological distress and nursing care. The keywords used for the research were: emotional care; cancer treatment; mental health; nursing. The databases used were the Virtual Health Library (VHL), which includes the following databases: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MedLine), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO). The results showed that anxiety, depression and fear are frequent in cancer patients, requiring interventions that integrate physical and emotional care. The studies analyzed demonstrated that the emotional support offered by the nursing team contributes significantly to the reduction of these symptoms, favoring the patient's adaptation to the treatment and improving their quality of life. The studies also highlighted that humanized care strengthens the patient's autonomy, improves their perception of the treatment and provides a greater sense of security and confidence throughout the therapeutic process. It is concluded that nursing plays a fundamental role in the comprehensive care of cancer patients, contributing to coping with the disease, reducing emotional suffering and promoting well-being, reinforcing the need for humanized and qualified practices in health services.