CUIDADOS PALIATIVOS EM MULHERES COM CÂNCER DE MAMA: PRÁTICAS E DESAFIOS DE ENFERMAGEM

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most prevalent neoplasm among women in Brazil and worldwide, frequently requiring palliative care due to tumor progression, treatment-related adverse effects, and the associated physical and psychosocial suffering. In this context, nursing plays an essential role in clinical assessment, symptom management, emotional support, and care coordination. Objective: To understand the scientific evidence regarding nursing practices and challenges in the care of women with breast cancer receiving palliative care. Methods: An integrative review conducted according to the six stages proposed by Whittemore and Knafl, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The search was performed in the LILACS, BDENF, MEDLINE, and SciELO databases, using DeCS/MeSH descriptors related to “breast cancer,” “palliative care,” and “nursing,” and included articles published between 2020 and 2025. Qualitative analysis followed Bardin’s thematic content analysis. Results: Nine articles were included. The thematic synthesis yielded four categories: (1) Clinical and functional dimensions, highlighting intense symptoms, functional decline, and the need for continuous monitoring; (2) Organization and transition of care, revealing delayed referrals, fragmented communication, and limited early integration of palliative care; (3) Psychosocial needs, emphasizing emotional distress, inequities in access to support, and low adherence to psychological services; and (4) Nursing practices and challenges, encompassing clinical assessment, health education, emotional support, participation in therapeutic decision-making, as well as barriers such as work overload, training deficits, and structural limitations. Discussion: The findings demonstrate that palliative care in breast cancer is complex and requires multidimensional interventions that integrate clinical management, informational support, and emotional care. The literature reinforces nursing as a key agent in this process, though challenges persist that may compromise the comprehensiveness and continuity of care, especially when the transition to palliative care occurs late. Conclusion: Strengthening palliative care for women with breast cancer requires early integration of this approach, effective communication, investment in professional training, and improved structural conditions within healthcare services. Nursing plays a fundamental role in promoting comfort, autonomy, and quality of life but needs institutional support and ongoing professional development. Further research is recommended to deepen knowledge on nursing interventions that enhance the quality of oncologic palliative care.