THE ROLE OF THE NURSES IN PAIN MANAGEMENT IN ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS

Abstract

Cancer has high incidence and significant physical, emotional, and social impacts, requiring early diagnosis and effective pain management. Palliative care, combined with tools such as the Palliative Performance Scale (PPS), aims to improve quality of life through humanized care. Objective: To describe the importance of nurses in pain management in cancer patients, contributing to improved quality of life. Methodology: This is a literature review conducted between February and May 2025. Initially, 1,200 articles were identified using descriptors and Boolean operators in the BDENF, LILACS, and SCIELO databases. After applying filters, 277 studies remained, of which 17 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were selected for analysis. Results: Pain management involves pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, as well as soft technologies, spirituality, and humanized communication. Nurses play a central role in understanding patients’ physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.Conclusion: Nursing-led patient navigation reduces barriers, accelerates treatment, and strengthens adherence. Nurses have an essential and irreplaceable role in cancer care, alleviating suffering and integrating technical and humanized approaches, thereby promoting comfort throughout the illness trajectory.