ORGANIZATION OF SURGICAL CARE PROVISION FOR PALLIATIVE PATIENTS: NURSING ASPECT

Abstract

Introduction. Palliative care represents an integral, humanistically oriented component of the modern healthcare system. Its primary goal is to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from incurable, progressive diseases or life-limiting conditions. Within this group of patients, a significant proportion require surgical interventions. Importantly, these procedures are palliative rather than radical or curative in nature. Their main purpose is to alleviate unbearable symptoms (such as obstruction or bleeding), reduce pain, and prevent severe complications that could markedly worsen the patient’s final months or weeks of life. In this complex process, the nurse plays a key role ensuring continuity of care, careful monitoring of the patient’s condition, and upholding their dignity and comfort. Unlike conventional surgery, which focuses on saving life, palliative surgery emphasizes enhancing its quality.

The aim of the study – to substantiate the features of organizing surgical care for palliative patients with an emphasis on the nursing aspect, to determine the role of the nurse in ensuring the quality of care, a comfortable course of the postoperative period and maintaining the dignity of patients in the final stages of life

The main part. Analysis of literature and regulatory documents has shown that palliative surgery is aimed to alleviate symptoms and support the patient’s functional abilities, rather than treating the underlying disease. The organization of care includes assessing the patient’s condition, planning and performing the interventions, postoperative care, and interaction within a multidisciplinary team. The nurse performs the functions of vital signs monitoring, controlling pain relief, preventing infections, and providing psychological support to the patient and family. The main problems are insufficient staff training and the lack of standardized care protocols. Practical recommendations include the implementation of local algorithms, advanced training for nurses, individualized care, and the development of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusions. Surgical care for palliative patients is a vital and integral component of comprehensive palliative treatment aimed at relieving suffering. Professional training and consistent organizational measures in nursing practice play a crucial role, directly contributing to improved quality of care, ensuring patient safety, and most importantly enhancing their quality of life during the final stages. The systematization and humanization of nursing care represent a fundamental pathway toward ensuring a dignified end of life.