The The fine line between humanization and trust in nursing

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Nursing involves not only performing technical procedures but also establishing bonds of trust with patients, maintaining professional boundaries for safe care. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the importance of humanization in nursing care and how to maintain patient trust without compromising professional ethics. METHODS: Data from organizations such as the Federal Council of Nursing (Cofen) and the World Health Organization (WHO) were used. Materials that address both the humanization of care and strategies for establishing professional trust ethically were selected. RESULTS: Humanization increases patient satisfaction and comfort, improves treatment adherence, and strengthens the patient-nurse relationship. Studies show that professionals who balance empathy and clear boundaries are able to maintain trust without compromising ethics. However, a lack of training or an inadequate interpretation of emotional closeness can create vulnerability for both the patient and the professional. CONCLUSION: Humanization and trust are essential elements in nursing, but they require balance and ethical awareness. Professional training and continuous reflection on affective limits are essential to ensure safe, empathetic, and professional care. KEYWORDS: Nursing; Humanization; Trust; Ethics; Bond. REFERENCES: 1 FEDERAL COUNCIL OF NURSING (COFEN). Code of Ethics for Nursing Professionals. Available at: www.cofen.gov.br. Accessed: September 2025. 2 World Health Organization (WHO). Humanization in Health Care. Available at: www.who.int. Accessed: September 2025. 3. SILVA, J. et al. Humanization and trust in nursing practice. Brazilian Journal of Nursing, 2021. Available at: www.scielo.org. Accessed: September 2025. 4. PEREIRA, M. Therapeutic bond and professional ethics in nursing. São Paulo: Health Publishing, 2020.