Given the dimensions of humanization in both the care and in the training of health professionals, the curriculum reforms implemented nationally and the educational project restructuring experience at the school under review, this article sought to analyze the medical students' views regarding the experiences that enabled them to develop content, skills and behaviors aimed at humanization. The authors conducted a qualitative study among 63 sophomore and senior students based on their accounts of significant experiences involving care and receptivity. The analysis was based on the symbolic content of the essays and focused on educational, psychological and ethical aspects involved. An attempt was made to broaden the diversity of viewpoints and add value to messages that showed perceptions, impressions and intuitions. It was shown that most striking ones were practical activities that took place in different scenarios, when students were required to monitor, assigned responsibilities related to, and came into contact with suffering caused by disease and death. By employing academic and professional models, or in the direct relationship with patients and families, such situations create movements of disturbance and unrest and direct possible senses towards humanization.
NHS; humanization of care; learning; medical students; doctor-patient relationships