THE ESSENTIAL ROLE OF NURSES IN EARLY RISK RECOGNITION AND MANAGEMENT IN TRAUMA AND CANCER CARE

Resumo

Nurses play a fundamental role in the early recognition and management of clinical risk conditions across a variety of healthcare settings. In the context of polytraumatized patients, their ability to monitor vital signs, assess clinical symptoms, and maintain clear communication with the multidisciplinary team is crucial for preventing severe complications and reducing mortality. Studies conducted by Iyengar et al. (2023) and Schuster et al. (2024) highlight the significance of early intervention and the application of trauma care protocols to enhance patient outcomes. Similarly, research by Tiago et al. (2020) demonstrates the critical impact of nursing documentation in identifying the early signs of sepsis among surgical patients, reinforcing the importance of accurate and timely records for clinical decision-making. In prehospital settings, the research by Cantão et al. (2020) underscores how structured nursing interventions can preserve vital signs and improve survival chances for trauma patients. Additionally, Skrobanski et al. (2019) emphasize the contribution of primary care nurses in the early detection of cancer, while identifying barriers such as insufficient training and communication challenges. Mahon (2015) further supports the need for integrating cancer risk assessment and preventive strategies into everyday nursing practice to enhance patient outcomes. Overall, the evidence reviewed highlights the indispensable position of nurses in early risk identification and management. Continuous professional development, investment in training, and fostering confidence in clinical decision-making are essential to empowering nurses in their roles. By strengthening nursing practices, healthcare systems can achieve safer, more efficient, and patient-centered care, ultimately improving morbidity, mortality, and quality of life for diverse patient populations.