This qualitative study aimed to analyze, through the vision of family, the nursing care provided to patient affected by advanced cancer during the hospitalization, as well as their participation in care. The Grounded Theory was used as a methodological reference framework. Data were collected by the technique of semi-structured interview, at hospital palliative care - Brazil. Eight family members participated in the study. Three categories were identified: Analyzing the nursing care provided to patient with advanced cancer on a day-to-day of the hospitalization; Emphasizing the importance of your presence in the context, and Manifesting the family who cares and need to be cared. The family believes that nursing care should be based on the empathy, good humor, competence, and communication; participates in the care; and may have needs for physical and psychosocial. Nursing must contribute to closer relations with family members, and seek to serve their needs, aiming at quality care.
Oncologic nursing; Hospice care; Professional-family relations