The work of Nursing Professionals in Intensive Care Units in Oncology Patient Care

Abstract

Introduction: Professionals working in oncology deal daily with suffering, pain and often death. Objective: To identify in the literature, factors that influence the work of professionals nursing in oncology units and also strategies that enhance patient care. Method: This is an integrative review researched in Lilacs and Medline databases using the keywords: oncology nursing, burnout, stress, health professionals and Intensive Care Units. Results: Data analysis revealed two themes: "the context care related to oncology patients in the Intensive Care Units," which highlighted the various factors that may negatively influence the multidisciplinary team work in the Intensive Care Units, such as physical as well as psychological factors, and "the feelings of professional assistance in oncology patients in the Intensive Care Units, "which reveals the conflict between the duty to maintain life versus the finite nature of the process. There are strategies to minimize stress factors such as improving working conditions and psychological support. Conclusion: Future studies should be done in order to improve working environment in the Intensive Care Units for the quality of life of the entire team that takes care of oncology patients, and their families, influences the humanization and quality care.