DEHUMANIZATION OF NURSING WORK: DETERMINING FACTORS AND ETHICAL IMPACTS ON THE QUALITY AND SAFETY OF CARE

Abstract

Dehumanization in nursing practice has become a growing concern in healthcare settings, as it compromises both the well-being of professionals and the quality of care provided to patients. In this context, the aim of this study was to analyze the impacts of the dehumanization of nursing work on the quality of care delivered and to identify strategies that promote humanization and professional appreciation. This is an integrative literature review carried out between 2019 and 2024 in the SciELO, BVS, LILACS, and PubMed databases. Controlled descriptors related to dehumanization, humanization of care, professional appreciation, and nurses’ mental health were used. Articles published in Portuguese and English addressing the determining factors of dehumanization and coping strategies in the nursing context were included. The analysis showed that dehumanization is directly associated with work overload, professional devaluation, and lack of emotional and institutional support. These factors contribute to physical and psychological exhaustion, reducing empathy, effective communication, and the therapeutic bond with patients. The literature highlights that lack of recognition and exhausting work environments affect motivation, performance, and patient safety. Conversely, humanization actions — such as institutional appreciation policies, psychological support programs, encouragement of self-care, and continuing education practices — proved effective in rebuilding more ethical and empathetic relationships within healthcare settings. Dehumanization of nursing work compromises not only the health of professionals but also the quality and safety of patient care. Implementing humanization strategies strengthens professional practice, restores the meaning of caring, and consolidates an ethical, sensitive, and humanized nursing approach.