[Intensive care nursing for oncological patients].

Background: With the rising incidence of cancer, the number of oncological patients in intensive care units (ICUs) is steadily increasing. Treatment-related complications, multiorgan failure, and age-related comorbidities contribute to this trend, requiring highly specialized intensive nursing care.

Objectives: How can intensive care nursing for oncological patients be optimized while considering clinical, ethical, and psychosocial aspects?

Methods: This work is based on a structured literature review of current studies, guidelines, and nursing science publications related to the care of cancer patients in critical care settings.

Results: Common reasons for ICU admission include respiratory insufficiency, infections, gastrointestinal complications, and treatment-induced side effects. Intensive care nurses play a central role in infection prevention, respiratory support, nutritional management, and skin integrity care. In addition to clinical expertise, they are key in communication, psychosocial support, and ethical decision-making processes.

Conclusion: The intensive care of oncological patients is complex and requires interdisciplinary collaboration. Not only technical competence but also ethical awareness, structured communication, and emotional support are essential for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in the ICU.