O cuidar de uma pessoa com câncer na ótica de familiares cuidadores: revisão de literatura

Abstract

This study aims to identify scientific evidence regarding the experiences of family caregivers of people who fall ill with cancer. An integrative literature review was carried out, based on six stages: identification of the theme, establishment of inclusion and exclusion criteria of the studies, definition of the information extracted and categorization of the studies; evaluation of the studies included in the integrative review; interpretation of the results and presentation of the review/knowledge synthesis. The analyzed articles indicated the woman as the main caregiver of the person with cancer. It was also identified several experiences and feelings of the familiar caregiver, including daily changes, fear, anguish, anxiety, uncertainties, overloads, fear of death and depressive symptoms, which compromised the mental, physical and spiritual health of the caregiver, resulting in the form of care to the sick family member. Also, support elements were evidenced in the analyzed articles, such as religiosity, faith, belief in God, support groups and support from health professionals. It is concluded that the experiences and feelings of family caregivers of people with cancer are similar and require attention from health professionals. It is highlighted the need for qualification of nursing to intervene with this population stratum.