The objective of this qualitative study was to better comprehend the "non-care" nursing relationships as signified by patients of a hospital emergency service. Nineteen adult individuals between the ages of 35 and 88 years old who live in the capital city and rural cities in the state of Santa Catarina were interviewed. The data was submitted to content analysis and interpreted under the perspective of complex thought. The significances of the "non-care" nursing relationships are highlighted in this article, and presented in two categories. Necessary nursing non-information, care, and assistance; Communication as an expression of "non-care". Sensibility on behalf of nursing is important concerning the aspects which involves the care process, seeking the promotion of professional-patient interaction, given that the patient is recognized and respected as the subject of care, as is extolled in the professional code of ethics. We urge nursing to advance in its form of thinking and acting in/towards established relationships in the organizational realm of health care.
Nursing Care; Emergency Nursing; Emergency Medical Services