Palliative care in pediatric oncology in nursing students' perception *

摘要

Objective: To know the perception of Nursing scholars about palliative care on pediatric oncology. Methods: Exploratory research with qualitative approach held on 2014, in a School of Nursing at Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. Were interviewed 20 undergraduate students in their senior year. The data collected were submitted to Thematic Analysis. Results: For the students, the palliative care in pediatric oncology is associated to controlling signs and symptoms related to diseases' progression, comfort, support, promotion of quality of life and well-being, using recreational resources. On the other side, some understand that palliative care aims to prolong life. They perceive the need of a multi-professional team acting together with the child and their family. Conclusion: Considering the complexity and multiple aspects involved in palliative care, the same must be approached during Nurses' undergraduate course.