Abstract
During this COVID-19 global pandemic, seriously ill patients rely on nurses more than ever. Providing care in the altered environment of the pandemic can be stressful for nurses and the interdisciplinary team. Faced with limited time and resources, restricted visiting of family members and loved ones, and the changing science affecting treatments, nurses are extraordinarily challenged. Fortunately, nurses can benefit from integrating palliative care nursing skills into all levels of care. Because palliative care is holistic, improves the quality of life, and focuses on both the patient and the family, it can assist nurses—from acute care to home care settings—in managing symptoms, communicating with empathy, and discussing care decisions. Importantly, despite the enormous stress of these uncertain times, nurses can take the time to care for themselves and thereby find the strength to continue caring for patients.
Highlights
PALABRAS CLAVE (Fuente: DeCS) Infecciones por coronavirus; pandemias; estrés; estrés fisiológico; enfermería de cuidados paliativos al final de la vida; calidad de vida
The increased volume and acuity of patients in hospitals and other healthcare settings have been unprecedented during the coronavirus pandemic
According to the World Health Organization, around 14 % of COVID-19 cases reported to WHO are among healthcare workers (1)
Summary
According to the World Health Organization (2), “Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients (adults and children) and their families who are facing problems associated with life-threatening illness. It prevents and relieves suffering through the early identification, correct assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, whether physical, psychosocial or spiritual.”. Because nurses have the difficult task of providing care in the altered environment of the pandemic, the palliative care skills of addressing physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs are essential. While the provision of holistic care is a challenge due to limited time and resources, palliative care skills can assist nurses in addressing patient and family needs more effectively and efficiently
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
