Compassionate Communication and Person-Centered Care in Palliative Nursing
scoping review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48492/servir0213.41024Keywords:
Palliative care; Nursing; Person-centered care; Compassionate communicationAbstract
Introduction: As the population ages, there is an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases and, consequently, a greater need for palliative care.
One of the pillars of palliative care is communication, especially compassionate communication. In nursing practice, this approach is essential as it promotes empathy, understanding and harmony between healthcare professionals, people and their families.
In the current healthcare context, especially in vulnerable situations, communication gains greater relevance, as it is fundamental for person-centered care.
Objective/s: To map the scientific evidence on compassionate communication strategies in nursing with people in palliative care.
Methods: The scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR. The electronic databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed) and CINAHL Complete (EBSCOhost) were used retrospectively between January 1, 2018 until the date of extraction. Grey literature was also researched in the Portuguese Open Access Scientific Repository and Google Scholar.
Results: From the mapping of scientific evidence, seven studies that met the inclusion criteria were included. From the selected articles, the following strategies promoting compassionate communication centered on the person in a palliative situation were identified, grouped into: empathy, active listening, compassion; emotion management; promotion of comfort and peace; biography/trajectory of care and family involvement.
Conclusion: Compassionate communication is an essential competency in nursing practice within palliative care, with a direct impact on the quality of care and the well-being of the person. The main strategies identified for a compassionate, person-centered approach include empathy, active listening, emotion management, promotion of comfort and peace, family involvement, and valuing the life trajectory. Continuous investment in training programs, mentorship, and research on compassionate communication is recommended to empower healthcare professionals and strengthen evidence-based practices.
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