Humanization of nursing care for terminally ill patients in intensive care units: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62305/biosana.v6i5.1296Keywords:
Humanization of Care; Palliative Care; Nursing Care; Intensive Care Unit, Terminally Ill.Abstract
Intensive Care Units are characterized by a high level of technology which, while reducing mortality, can overshadow the care-related and ethical dimensions during the end-of-life phase. In this context, the humanization of nursing care is essential to ensure care centered on the dignity and comfort of critically ill patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the scientific evidence regarding the humanization of nursing care for terminally ill patients hospitalized in intensive care units, identifying key interventions, barriers, and ethical dilemmas. A review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, with a literature search performed across databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, SciELO, BVS, and LILACS using health descriptors. Blind study selection was managed using Rayyan, and methodological quality was assessed with the MMAT tool. Thirty-six studies were included, revealing a higher volume of scientific output from Europe and a predominance of qualitative approaches. Notable humanizing strategies included intensive care diaries, individualized critical care plans, affective touch, and outdoor excursions; conversely, workload and ethical dilemmas associated with *disthanasia* (futile prolongation of life) were identified as the primary barriers. The evidence indicates that humanization represents a crucial ethical challenge and supports a paradigm shift toward prioritizing the comfort of terminally ill patients, implementing palliative transition protocols, and providing emotional support to nursing staff.
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