Situations Experienced by the Nursing Team of a Cancer Unit

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is a complex disease that requires diverse care and treatment. Considering the importance of the nursing team for patients suffering from cancer and the complexity of care and performance in this area, the work processes of these professionals should receive special attention. Objective: To understand the situations experienced by nursing professionals who care for patients with cancer. Method: Qualitative research carried out with 12 nursing team professionals working in an oncology unit of a hospital in the interior of the State of São Paulo, Brazil, during the months of September and October 2017, using a semi-structured interview script characterization data and guiding questions. A thematic content analysis was carried out, from which emerged the categories "Situations experienced during care delivery in oncology unit" and "Feelings of nursing professionals to care for patients with cancer". Results: Even with situations of difficulties and suffering, professionals showed feelings of satisfaction and gratitude for providing care to patients with cancer. Conclusion: The motivation of nursing professionals to provide decent care to cancer patients overcomes existing barriers.