Palliative care in paediatric oncology in nursing education.

Objective: To identify and understand the view of students regarding palliative care in paediatric oncology during a graduate programme.

Methods: Exploratory research with a qualitative approach conducted in a school of nursing in Rio de Janeiro. Data were collected from September to November 2014, through semi-structured interviews with 20 students enrolled in the last period of a graduate programme. The data were subjected to thematic analysis.

Results: The results produced two thematic units: the (un)preparedness of nursing students regarding palliative care in paediatric oncology and how the subject of palliative care in paediatric oncology is approached in the graduate programme. The students mentioned difficulties in providing this care and their lack of exposure to the topic during their graduate studies. They stated strategies to prepare for the provision of care, and talked about how the subject should be addressed in their curricular programme.

Conclusion: It is necessary to expand discussions on palliative care in paediatric oncology during the nurses' graduate programme.