Meaning of life as perceived by nurses at work in oncology palliative care: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Objective: To understand the meaning of life as perceived by nurses at work in oncology palliative care. Method: This is a qualitative study, with a phenomenological approach, based on the theoretical-philosophical framework by Viktor Emil Frankl. It was developed with nurses in a unit specialized in oncology palliative care located in the city of Rio de Janeiro and used phenomenological interviews. Data were processed using the phenomenological method by Amedeo Giorgi. Results: Thirty-four nurses participated in the study. The study conveys an existential message to nurses through selftranscendence. Through their work, they represent their own identity, which is directly impacted by the way they perceive freedom and responsibility in the face of actions taken. They build their reality and make work viable as a source of life. The care provided is no longer just a task to be qualified as a solidary, relational, existential, dynamic, and temporal issue. Conclusion: The experience in a scenario of life finitude allows these professionals to experience an authentic encounter with their self, the awakening of values giving meaning to their existence, and self-transcendence, deeply contributing to society through a more human, comprehensive, and quality assistance.

Dimensions of good palliative nursing care: Expert panel consensus and perceptions of palliative professionals

“…Spiritual support is a fundamental part of nursing care and a core competency for all professionals working in palliative care, which, like in our study, recognises aspects such as meaning, connection and transcendence. The end‐of‐life experience fosters in professionals an authentic encounter with their self, an awakening of values that give meaning to their life and self‐transcendence (Pereira Rocha et al, 2021). Moreover, in both the literature and the findings presented, palliative care professionals relate spirituality to connecting with others, being compassionate, having self‐awareness and empowering patients and family members (Lalani et al, 2021).…”

Desafios encontrados por enfermeiros nos cuidados a pacientes oncológicos no fim de vida

“…Em análise de estudo foram incluídos 34 enfermeiros que relataram suas percepções quanto ao sentido da vida observado nos cuidados à pacientes oncológicos. Eles relataram que num cenário de finitude, há um encontro autêntico com o seu eu e o despertar de valores que dão sentido existencial, permitindo um cuidado mais humano, amplo e de qualidade 17 .…”

Pacientes com câncer terminal em cuidados paliativos: uma visão ao paciente e à família

“…No ambiente profissional, a equipe de enfermagem também faz uso desse misticismo para conseguir lidar com a perda do paciente, mas se é necessário certa atenção na utilização isolada deste suporte, pois pode se tornar algo prejudicial ao profissional como forma de alienação (Soares et al, 2022). Além disso, o Artigo 5 ainda acrescenta que essa utilização da espiritualidade pelo enfermeiro é de certa forma uma válvula que ajuda a enfrentar as dificuldades que aparecem na sua atuação e reduzir danos a si próprio (Rocha et al, 2021).…”