A importância dos cuidados paliativos exercidos por médicos de família e comunidade na Atenção Primária à Saúde: uma revisão narrativa / The importance of palliative care performed by family practice doctors in primary health care: a narrative review / La importancia de los cuidados paliativos realizados por médicos de familia y comunitario en la Atención Primaria de Salud: una revisión narrativa

Introdução: A terminalidade é uma situação cada vez mais vivenciada nos serviços de saúde em razão da progressão da expectativa de vida da população e, consequentemente, do incremento de pacientes com doenças crônicas graves. No Brasil, os serviços de cuidados paliativos ainda se encontram centralizados nos serviços de atenção terciária. Entretanto, em diversos países, a Atenção Primária à Saúde tem sido a grande prestadora e coordenadora de cuidados paliativos dos usuários, em prol da descentralização dessa assistência e da promoção do cuidado integral. Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão narrativa da literatura, a fim de identificar a relação dos médicos de família e comunidade na atuação de cuidados paliativos na Atenção Primária à Saúde. Métodos: Revisão bibliográfica por meio do acesso às bases de dados: Portal da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) e PubMed. Foram selecionados 16 artigos, os quais foram submetidos a análise temática e posterior discussão das principais características que colaboram para a maior atuação dos médicos de família e comunidade em cuidados paliativos. Resultados: Observou-se a importância da atuação dos médicos de família e comunidade em cuidados paliativos no âmbito da Atenção Primária à Saúde, bem como a interligação entre as duas especialidades, os desafios existentes nesse caminho e os benefícios dessa prática. Conclusões: A oferta de cuidados paliativos pelos médicos de família e comunidade na atenção primária favorece o acesso e acompanhamento dos pacientes. Entretanto, a atuação dos profissionais das Equipes de Saúde da Família nessa linha de cuidado ainda é insuficiente em razão da escassa capacitação na área.

Introduction: Terminality is a situation increasingly experienced in healthcare services due to the progression of the population's life expectancy and, consequently, the increase in patients with serious chronic diseases. In Brazil, Palliative Care services are still centralized in tertiary care services. However, in many countries, Primary Health Care has been the major provider and coordinator of Palliative Care for users, in favor of decentralizing this assistance and promoting comprehensive care. Objective: To carry out a narrative literature review to identify the relationship of Family Practice Doctors in the performance of Palliative Care in Primary Health Care. Methods: Bibliographic review through access to databases: CAPES, LILACS, SciELO, and PUBMED. Sixteen articles were selected, which were submitted to thematic analysis and subsequent discussion of the main characteristics that contribute to the greater performance of Family Practice Doctors in Palliative Care. Results: The importance of Family Practice Doctors in Palliative Care within the scope of Primary Health Care was observed, as well as the interconnection between the two specialties, the challenges along this path, and the benefits of this practice. Conclusions: The offer of Palliative Care by Family Practice Physicians in Primary Care favors the access and monitoring of patients. However, the performance of the professionals in Family Health Teams in this line of care is still insufficient due to the lack of training in the area.

Introducción: La terminalidad es una situación cada vez más experimentada en los servicios de salud debido a la progresión de la esperanza de vida de la población y, en consecuencia, al aumento de pacientes con enfermedades crónicas graves. En Brasil, los servicios de Cuidados Paliativos todavía están centralizados en los servicios de atención terciaria. Sin embargo, en varios países, la Atención Primaria de Salud ha sido la principal proveedora y coordinadora de los Cuidados Paliativos para los usuarios, a favor de descentralizar esta asistencia y promover la atención integral. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión narrativa de la literatura, con el fin de identificar la relación de los Médicos de Familia y Comunitarios en la actuación de los Cuidados Paliativos en la Atención Primaria de Salud. Métodos: Revisión bibliográfica mediante acceso a bases de datos: Portal CAPES, LILACS, SciELO y PubMed. Fueron seleccionados dieciséis artículos, que fueron sometidos al análisis temático y posterior discusión de las principales características que contribuyen para una mayor actuación de los Médicos de Familia y Comunidad en Cuidados Paliativos. Resultados: Se constató la importancia del trabajo de los Médicos de Familia y Comunitarios en Cuidados Paliativos en el ámbito de la Atención Primaria de Salud, así como la interconexión entre las dos especialidades, los desafíos que existen en este camino y los beneficios de esta práctica. Conclusiones: La oferta de Cuidados Paliativos por Médicos de Familia y Comunitario en Atención Primaria favorece el acceso y seguimiento de los pacientes. Sin embargo, la actuación de los profesionales de los Equipos de Salud de la Familia en esta línea de atención aún es insuficiente debido a la falta de formación en el área.

Consideraciones bioéticas en el manejo de la esclerosis lateral amiotrófica: Una aproximación al quehacer fonoaudiológico

Introducción: La esclerosis lateral amiotrófica (ELA) es la forma más común de enfermedad degenerativa de motoneurona en la edad adulta y es considerada una enfermedad terminal. Por lo mismo, el accionar del fonoaudiólogo debe considerar el respeto a los principios bioéticos básicos para garantizar una asistencia adecuada. Objetivo: Conocer aquellas consideraciones bioéticas relacionadas al manejo y estudio de personas con ELA para luego brindar una aproximación hacia el quehacer fonoaudiológico. Método: Se efectuó una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus y SciELO. Se filtraron artículos publicados desde 2000 hasta junio de 2023 y fueron seleccionados aquellos que abordaban algún componente bioético en población con ELA. Resultados: Aspectos relacionados al uso del consentimiento informado y a la toma de decisiones compartidas destacaron como elementos esenciales para apoyar la autonomía de las personas. Conclusión: Una correcta comunicación y una toma de decisiones compartida son claves para respetar la autonomía de las personas. A su vez, la estandarización de procedimientos mediante la investigación clínica permitirá aportar al cumplimiento de los principios bioéticos de beneficencia y no maleficencia, indispensables para la práctica profesional.

Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of degenerative motor neuron disease in adulthood and is considered a terminal disease. For this reason, the actions of the speech therapist must consider respect for basic bioethical principles to guarantee adequate assistance. Objective: To know those bioethical considerations related to the management and study of people with ALS to then provide an approach to speech therapy. Methodology: A bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO databases. Articles published from 2000 to June 2023 were filtered and those that addressed a bioethical component in the population with ALS were selected. Results: Aspects related to the use of informed consent and shared decision-making stood out as essential elements to support people's autonomy. Conclusion: Proper communication and shared decision-making are key to respecting people's autonomy. In turn, the standardization of procedures through clinical research will contribute to compliance with the bioethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence, essential for professional practice.

Cuidados Paliativos em hospital oncológico de referência: atenção primária, diagnóstico tardio e mistanásia / Palliative Care in a referral oncology hospital: Primary Health Care, late diagnoses and mysthanasia

RESUMO Estudo retrospectivo, observacional, transversal que analisou os encaminhamentos de 120 pacientes oncológicos para uma equipe de Cuidados Paliativos (CP) em hospital público de referência em oncologia no norte do Paraná, em fevereiro de 2020. Os dados foram coletados nos prontuários e analisados com base no suporte teórico da bioética. Observou-se que expressiva maioria dos pacientes 82,5% chegou ao hospital com doença avançada e 59,7% foram encaminhados para CP em menos de seis meses após a entrada no serviço. Parte importante dos pacientes chegou sem possibilidade de terapia específica oncológica, sendo, por isso, rapidamente encaminhados aos CP. Esses e outros achados da pesquisa sustentam uma discussão entre cuidados paliativos, atenção primária à saúde e diagnóstico oncológico tardio. O artigo conclui que, no contexto dos CP, as mortes relacionadas ao diagnóstico oncológico tardio, antecedidas de sofrimentos evitáveis e decorrentes de falhas estruturais em políticas públicas de saúde, expressam uma problemática forma de mistanásia.

ABSTRACT This retrospective study analyzed the referrals of 120 cancer patients to a Palliative Care (PC) team in a public oncology referral hospital in northern in northern Paraná, in February 2020. It was observed that the vast majority of patients (82.5%) arrived at the hospital with advanced disease, while 59.7% were referred to PC in less than six months after entering the service. An important part of the patients arrived with no possibility of specific oncological therapy, and were therefore quickly referred to PC. These and other research data support a discussion between palliative care, primary health care and late cancer diagnosis. The article concludes that, in the context of PC, deaths related to late cancer diagnosis, preceded by avoidable suffering due to structural failures in public health policies, are characterized as a problematic form of mysthanasia.

Use of antimicrobials in patients in Palliative Care admitted to the Intensive Care Unit: A retrospective study

Introduction: Palliative care (PC) improves the quality of life of patients and their families. The use of antimicrobials is controversial in PC patients, especially in those admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Objective: To evaluate the use of antimicrobials in PC patients admitted to the ICU. Methods: This is a retrospective study, performed from August 2019 to September 2020. Data on demographic profile, hospitalization, PC, and use of antimicrobials were collected from the Erasto Gaertner Hospital database, in Curitiba, Brazil. Results: 182 patients were studied, median age of 65 years and 52% men. The median length of stay in the ICU was 3 days; the median total length of stay in the hospital was 6 days and 89.5% of the patients died. The time in ICU of patients treated with antibiotics (14.8%) was significantly longer (p=0.033) than for patients who were not (85.2%). Using or not using antibiotics did not change the outcome. Among those who took antibiotics, death occurred in 81.5% of cases and among those who did not use, 74.8% died (p=0.627). Between the cases that used broad-spectrum antibiotics 17/19 (89.5%) died and the mean hospital stay was 16.2 days. Among cases that used narrow-spectrum 5/9 (62.5%) died and the mean hospital stay was 6.4 days (p=0.033). Conclusion: The administration and/or the spectrum of antibiotics in PC patients admitted to the ICU did not change the mortality rate. The administration of antibiotics increased the length of stay in the ICU.

Atuação do enfermeiro a pacientesem cuidados paliativos: uma revisão integrativa de literatura / Nurse's role with patients in palliative care: an integrative literature review

Os cuidados paliativos visam melhorar a qualidade de vida de pacientes e suas famílias que enfrentam doenças ameaçadoras, proporcionando alívio ao sofrimento físico, psicossocial e espiritual. Objetivo: Descrever o papel do enfermeiro nos cuidados paliativos, destacando a importância do conhecimento em cuidados paliativos e bioética para tomar decisões adequadas e implementar as diretrizes antecipadas de vontade dos pacientes. Método: Para realizar esta revisão, foram analisados sete artigos publicados entre 2018 e 2022. Os estudos selecionados abrangiam pesquisas qualitativas, revisões sistemáticas e guias de prática clínica. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram um aumento na produção científica sobre cuidados paliativos nos últimos anos, com a publicação de artigos em revistas de diferentes qualidades. Os estudos destacaram a importância do conhecimento em cuidados paliativos e bioética para os enfermeiros, ressaltando a necessidade de qualificação para tomar decisões adequadas e implementar as diretrizes antecipadas de vontade dos pacientes. A pesquisa também identificou os diagnósticos de enfermagem mais comuns e estabeleceu intervenções plausíveis no contexto de terminalidade. Além disso, enfatizou-se a relevância do conhecimento dos enfermeiros sobre práticas integrativas e complementares, buscando uma abordagem holística e humanizada no cuidado paliativo. Conclusão: Esta revisão destaca a importância da atuação do enfermeiro nos cuidados paliativos e ressalta a necessidade de qualificação e desenvolvimento de ações que promovam uma abordagem humanizada e melhoria na qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Apesar dos desafios identificados na prática de enfermagem nesse contexto, como a falta de preparo na graduação para lidar com o processo de morte e a necessidade de abordagens mais aprofundadas, é essencial que os enfermeiros baseiem suas condutas na humanização, bioética e respeito à dignidade humana do paciente, incluindo a intervenção nos sintomas físicos, sociais e emocionais.(AU)

Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families facing life-threatening illnesses, providing relief from physical, psychosocial, and spiritual suffering. Objective: To describe the nurse's role in palliative care, highlighting the importance of knowledge in palliative care and bioethics to make adopted decisions and implement advance directives of the patients' will. Method: To conduct this review, seven articles published between 2018 and 2022 were analyzed. The selected studies encompassed qualitative research, systematic reviews, and clinical practice guidelines. Results: The results showed an increase in scientific production on palliative care in recent years, with articles published in journals of varying quality. The studies emphasized the importance of knowledge in palliative care and bioethics for nurses, emphasizing the need for qualification to make appropriate decisions and implement patients' advance care directives. The research also identified the most common nursing diagnoses and established plausible interventions in the context of terminality. Additionally, the relevance of nurses' knowledge of integrative and complementary practices was emphasized, seeking a holistic and humanized approach to palliative care. Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of nurses' involvement in palliative care and underscores the need for qualification and the development of actions that promote a humanized approach and improvement in patients' quality of life. Despite the challenges identified in nursing practice in this context, such as the lack of preparation in undergraduate education to deal with the dying process and the need for more in-depth approaches, it is essential for nurses to base their conduct on humanization, bioethics, and respect for the human dignity of the patient, including intervention in physical, social, and emotional symptoms.(AU)

Los cuidados paliativos tienen como objetivo mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes y sus familias que enfrentan enfermedades potencialmente mortales.proporcionando alivio del sufrimiento físico, psicosocial y espiritual. Objetivo: Describir el papel de las enfermeras en cuidados paliativos, destacando la importancia del conocimiento en cuidados paliativos y bioética para tomar decisiones adecuadas e implementar directivas anticipadas de los deseos de los pacientes. Método: Para realizar esta revisión se utilizaron siete artículos publicados entre 2018 y 2022. Los estudios seleccionados cubrieron investigaciones cualitativas, revisiones sistemáticas y guías de práctica clínica. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron un aumento en la producción científica sobre cuidados paliativos en los últimos años, con la publicación de artículosen revistas de diferente calidad. Los estudios resaltaron la importancia del conocimiento en cuidados paliativos y bioética para enfermeras, destacando la necesidad de calificaciones para tomar decisiones apropiadas e implementar directivas anticipadas de los deseos de los pacientes. La investigación también identificó los diagnósticos de enfermería más comunes y las intervenciones establecidas.plausible en el contexto de la terminalidad. Además, se destacó la relevancia del conocimiento de las enfermeras sobre las prácticas.integrador y complementario, buscando un enfoque holístico y humanizado de los cuidados paliativos.(AU)

Comunicação de más notícias em cuidados paliativos: estudo bibliométrico / Communication of bad news in palliative care: bibliometric study / Comunicación de malas noticias en cuidados paliativos: estudio bibliométrico

Os cuidados paliativos compreendem a melhora da qualidade de vida e o alívio dos sintomas de pacientes que enfrentam doenças que ameaçam a continuidade da vida e de seus familiares. Para tal, é necessário habilidade comunicativa, a fim de uma boa condução ao transmitir uma má notícia. Buscou-se compreender como se configura a produção científica nacional e internacional que aborda a comunicação de más notícias em cuidados paliativos. A pesquisa de revisão, de análise bibliométrica, analisou 25 artigos dos últimos cinco anos (entre 2016 e 2020) disponíveis na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS/Bireme). Os resultados revelaram publicações de 134 autores em 16 periódicos de diferentes países. Parte dos estudos foi realizadacom profissionais de saúde em hospitais e apresentam abordagem quantitativa. A comunicação de más notícias ainda se mostra um desafio para profissionais, pacientes e familiares.

The palliative care comprises improving the quality of life and relieving the symptoms of patients facing illnesses that threaten the continuity of life and their families. For this, communicative ability is necessary, in order to conduct well when transmitting bad news. We sought to understand how the national and international scientific production on communication of bad news in palliative care is configured. The literature review research, based on bibliometrics, analysed 25 articles from the last five years (between 2016 and 2020) available in the Virtual Health Library (BVS/Bireme). The results revealed publications by 134 authors in 16 journals from different countries. Some of the studies were carried out with health professionals in hospitals and have a quantitative approach. Communicating bad news is still a challenge for professionals, patients and their families.

Los cuidados paliativos comprenden mejorar la calidad de vida y aliviar los síntomas de los pacientes que enfrentan enfermedades que amenazan la continuidad de vida y sus familias. Para ello es necesaria la habilidad comunicativa, a fin de poder transmitir adecuadamente las malas noticias. Buscamos comprender cómo se configura la producción científica nacional e internacional que aborda la comunicación de malas noticias en cuidados paliativos. La investigación de revisión de literatura, basada en el análisis bibliométrico, analizó 25 artículos de los últimos cinco años (entre 2016 y 2020) disponibles en la Biblioteca Virtual en Salud (BVS/Bireme). Los resultados revelaron publicaciones de 134 autores en 16 revistas de diferentes países. Parte de los estudios se realizaron con profesionales de la salud en hospitales y tienen un enfoque cuantitativo. La comunicación de malas noticias sigue siendo un desafío para profesionales, pacientes y sus familiares.

Fatores preditores associados a ocorrência de lesão por pressão em pacientes em cuidados paliativos oncológicos / Predictive factors associated with the occurrence of pressure injuries in patients undergoing cancer palliative care / Factores predictivos asociados con la aparición de lesiones por presión en pacientes sometidos a cuidados paliativos oncológicos

Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores preditores para ocorrência de lesão por pressão em pacientes oncológicos em cuidados paliativos. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico observacional, analítico, com delineamento transversal e abordagem quantitativa. A coleta de dados foi realizada com 105 participantes, no período de maio a outubro de 2019, em uma Clínica de Cuidados Paliativos Oncológicos de um Centro de Alta Complexidade em Oncologia. Os foram inseridos no software Biostat 5.0, em que foi realizada primeiramente a análise de regressão logística univariada, e posteriormente foram selecionadas as variáveis para a regressão logística múltipla e assim definiram-se os fatores preditivos para lesão por pressão. Resultados: A prevalência identificada foi de 19,04% para lesão por pressão. A maioria da amostra eram mulheres (60%), com idade menor que 70 anos (70%). Dois terços apresentavam risco muito alto (15%), para lesão por pressão segundo a Escala de Braden, e possuíam como diagnóstico primário câncer de próstata (20%), seguido de colo uterino (15%). Conclusão: A presença de lesão medular e o uso de fralda descartável demonstrou forte correlação com o desenvolvimento de lesão por pressão, sendo estes os fatores preditivos identificados neste estudo. Conhecer o perfil desses pacientes auxilia na elaboração e sistematização das condutas de enfermagem, visando melhor qualidade e segurança no cuidado. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the predictive factors for the occurrence of pressure injuries in cancer patients undergoing palliative care. Methods: Observational, analytical, cross-sectional epidemiological study with a quantitative approach. Data collection was carried out with 105 participants, from May to October 2019, in an Oncology Palliative Care Clinic of a High Complexity Oncology Center. The data were entered into the Biostat 5.0 software, in which the univariate logistic regression analysis was first performed, and then the variables for the multiple logistic regression were selected, thus defining the predictive factors for pressure injury. Results: The identified prevalence was 19.04% for pressure injuries. Most of the sample were women (60%), aged under 70 years (70%). Two-thirds were at very high risk (15%) for pressure injury according to the Braden Scale, and had prostate cancer as a primary diagnosis (20%), followed by cervix (15%). Conclusion: The presence of spinal cord injury and the use of a disposable diaper showed a strong correlation with the development of pressure injury, which are the predictive factors identified in this study. Knowing the profile of these patients helps in the elaboration and systematization of nursing procedures, aiming at better quality and safety in care. (AU)

Objetivo: Evaluar los factores predictivos de la ocurrencia de lesiones por presión en pacientes oncológicos sometidos a cuidados paliativos. Métodos: Estudio epidemiológico observacional, analítico, transversal con enfoque cuantitativo. La recolección de datos se realizó con 105 participantes, de mayo a octubre de 2019, en una Clínica de Cuidados Paliativos Oncológicos de un Centro Oncológico de Alta Complejidad. Los datos se ingresaron en el software Biostat 5.0, en el cual se realizó primero el análisis de regresión logística univariante, y luego se seleccionaron las variables para la regresión logística múltiple, definiendo así los factores predictivos de lesión por presión. Resultados: La prevalencia identificada fue del 19,04% para las lesiones por presión. La mayoría de la muestra fueron mujeres (60%), menores de 70 años (70%). Dos tercios tenían un riesgo muy alto (15%) de lesión por presión según la escala de Braden y tenían cáncer de próstata como diagnóstico primario (20%), seguido del cuello uterino (15%). Conclusión: La presencia de lesión medular y el uso de pañal desechable mostró una fuerte correlación con el desarrollo de lesión por presión, que son los factores predictivos identificados en este estudio. Conocer el perfil de estos pacientes ayuda en la elaboración y sistematización de los procedimientos de enfermería, buscando una mejor calidad y seguridad en la atención. (AU)

Análise das informações sobre cuidados paliativos divulgadas na televisão / Analysis of palliative care information broadcasted on television / Análisis de la información sobre cuidados paliativos emitida en televisión

Este estudo de abordagem qualitativa teve como objetivo analisar, a partir do referencial teórico da Análise Institucional, as informações sobre cuidados paliativos veiculadas nos programas da Rede Globo de televisão. A partir da busca no site Globoplay, foram identificados trinta vídeos relacionados ao assunto entre os anos de 2013 e 2020. Entre outros aspectos, foi observado o predomínio de informações divulgadas no mês de outubro, em programas locais da região sudoeste e presença dos profissionais de saúde como a principal fonte de consulta. A televisão se mostrou um importante dispositivo de divulgação de informações sobre cuidados paliativos com os mais variados sentidos, a saber: espiritualidade, alívio da dor e protagonismo dos sujeitos e seus familiares na busca por um processo de morrer com qualidade. Entretanto, nenhum vídeo citou o Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), o que demonstrou sua invisibilidade nesse meio. Recomenda-se que os meios de comunicação acelerem a divulgação do assunto e que enfatizem o SUS nos conteúdos divulgados.

This qualitative study analyzes the information on palliative care broadcasted by Rede Globo de Televisão's programs based on the theoretical framework of Institutional Analysis. A search on the "Globoplay" website retrieved 30 videos related to the subject between 2013 and 2020. Among other aspects, information was mainly broadcasted in the month of October and in local southwestern programs, having health professionals presented as their main source of information. Television proved to be an important device for disseminating information on palliative care aspects such as spirituality, pain relief and the role of patients and their families in the search for a quality dying process. However, no video mentioned the Unified Health System (SUS), showing its media invisibility. Media conglomerates should increase the dissemination of palliative care information, emphasizing the role played by the SUS.

Este estudio cualitativo tuvo por objetivo analizar, a partir del referencial teórico del Análisis Institucional, las informaciones transmitidas sobre cuidados paliativos en los programas de la Red Globo de Televisión. A partir de la búsqueda en el sitio web Globoplay se identificaron treinta videos relacionados con el tema entre los años 2013 y 2020. Se observó, entre otros aspectos, el predominio de informaciones difundidas en el mes de octubre y en programas locales de la región Suroeste, y los profesionales de la salud se presentaron como la principal fuente de información. La televisión demostró ser un importante dispositivo de difusión de información sobre los cuidados paliativos con los más variados sentidos, como la espiritualidad, el alivio del dolor y el papel de las personas y sus familias en la búsqueda de una muerte digna. Sin embargo, no se mencionó al Sistema Único de Salud (SUS) en ningún video, lo que lo invisibilizó en los medios. Se recomienda que los medios de comunicación avancen en la difusión sobre el tema y que se haga énfasis en el SUS en los contenidos difundidos.

Effectiveness of virtual teaching programme regarding palliative care on knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude of Nursing Personnel in North India / Efectividad de un programa de enseñanza virtual sobre cuidados paliativos en los conocimientos, la autoeficacia y la actitud del personal de enfermería en el norte de la India / Eficácia de um programa virtual de ensino de cuidados paliativos sobre conhecimento, autoeficácia e atitude da equipe de enfermagem no norte da Índia

Objective.To evaluate the effectiveness of Virtual Teaching (VT) Programme regarding palliative care on knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude among Nursing Personnel working in selected hospitals of North India. Methods. A quasi-experimental study with non-equivalent control group pre-test-post-test design was conducted on 121 Nursing Personnel, selected by convenient sampling technique. Knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude were assessed using structured knowledge questionnaire, Palliative Care Self-efficacy Scale, and Frommelt Attitudes toward care of dying scale respectively. Nursing personnel in experimental group received Virtual Teaching Programme regarding palliative care whereas those in comparison group received conventional teaching (CT). The study included a pre-test followed by the teaching (virtual/ conventional) on day one. The post-test was conducted on 15th day after the intervention. Results. The results showed that there was a significant difference in mean post-test knowledge (VT group: 17.11 to CT group: 25.05; t=9.25, p<0.001), self-efficacy (VT group: 39.27 to CT group: 43.38; t=6.39, p<0.001) and attitude (VT group: 108.86 to CT group: 133.23; t=9.27, p<0.001) scores between virtual teaching group and conventional teaching group. ANCOVA test revealed statistically significant differences in the mean scores of knowledge [F (1.11) = 86.61, p<0.001], self-efficacy [F (1.11) = 841.75, p<0.001] and attitude [F (1.11) = 82.92, p<0.001] between the groups, with higher means obtained in the CT group. Conclusion. Virtual Teaching programme and Conventional teaching both were effective in enhancing the knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude among Nursing Personnel regarding palliative care with conventional teaching being more effective.

Objetivo. Evaluar la efectividad de un programa de Enseñanza Virtual (EV) sobre cuidados paliativos en cuanto a conocimientos, autoeficacia y actitud entre el personal de enfermería que trabaja en hospitales seleccionados del norte de la India. Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio cuasiexperimental con un diseño de grupo de control no equivalente. Se realizaron pre y post-prueba a 121 miembros del personal de enfermería, seleccionados mediante una técnica de muestreo por conveniencia. Se evaluaron los conocimientos, la autoeficacia y las actitudes mediante un cuestionario estructurado de conocimientos, una escala de autoeficacia en cuidados paliativos y una escala de actitudes de Frommelt hacia el cuidado de personas al final de su vida. El personal de enfermería del grupo experimental recibió un programa de EV sobre cuidados paliativos, mientras que el del grupo de comparación recibió enseñanza convencional (EC). El estudio incluyó una preprueba seguida de la enseñanza virtual o convencional el primer día y una prueba posterior al decimoquinto día después de la intervención. Resultados. Los resultados mostraron que había una diferencia significativa en las puntuaciones medias post-test entre los grupos en: conocimientos (EV: 17.11 y EC: 25.05; t=9.25, p<0.001), autoeficacia (grupo VT: 39.27 y grupo CT: 43.38; t=6.39, p<0.001) y actitud (grupo EV: 108.86 y grupo EC: 133.23; t=9.27, p=<0.001) La prueba ANCOVA también reveló diferencias estadísticamente significativas en las puntuaciones medias de conocimientos [F (1.11) = 86.61, p=<0.001], autoeficacia [F (1.12) =841.75, p=<0.001] y actitud [F (1.11) = 82.91, p<0.001] entre los grupos, obteniéndose medias más altas en el grupo CT. Conclusión. Tanto el programa de enseñanza virtual como la enseñanza convencional fueron efectivos para mejorar los conocimientos, la autoeficacia y la actitud del personal de enfermería en relación con los cuidados paliativos, siendo el beneficio mucho mayor la enseñanza convencional.

Objetivo. Avaliar a eficácia de um programa de Aprendizagem Virtual (VE) sobre cuidados paliativos em termos de conhecimento, autoeficácia e atitude entre a equipe de enfermagem que trabalha em hospitais selecionados no norte da Índia. Métodos. Um estudo quase experimental foi conduzido com um desenho de grupo controle não equivalente. Foram realizados pré e pós-testes em 121 membros da equipe de enfermagem, selecionados por meio de técnica de amostragem por conveniência. Foram utilizados os instrumentos: questionário de conhecimento estruturado, escala de autoeficácia em cuidados paliativos e escala de atitudes de Frommelt em relação ao cuidado de pessoas em fim de vida. A equipe de enfermagem do grupo experimental recebeu um programa de VE sobre cuidados paliativos, enquanto o grupo controle recebeu ensino convencional (CE). O estudo incluiu um pré-teste seguido de ensino virtual ou convencional no primeiro dia e um pós-teste no 15º dia após a intervenção. Resultados. Os resultados mostraram que houve diferença significativa nas médias dos escores pós-teste entre os grupos em: conhecimento (EV: 17.11 e EC: 25.05; t=9.25, p<0.001), autoeficácia (grupo VT: 39.27 e grupo CT: 43.38; t=6.39, p<0.001) e atitude (grupo EV: 108.86 e grupo EC: 133.23; t=9.27, p=<0.001). O teste ANCOVA também revelou diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas pontuações médias de conhecimento [F (1.11) = 86.61, p=<0.001], autoeficácia [F (1.12) =841.75, p=<0.001] e atitude [F (1.11) = 82.91, p<0.001] entre os grupos, obtendo maiores médias em o grupo CT. Conclusão. Tanto o programa de ensino virtual quanto o ensino convencional foram eficazes na melhoria do conhecimento, da autoeficácia e da atitude da equipe de enfermagem em relação aos cuidados paliativos, sendo o benefício muito maior com o ensino convencional.

Cuidados paliativos en la atención primaria de salud / Palliative care in primary health care

En la actualidad, la oferta de cuidados paliativos especializados ha sido superada por la demanda, por lo cual la atención a pacientes con enfermedades en estado terminal o en fase final de la vida suele estar a cargo del médico del nivel primario de asistencia. En ese sentido, los cuidados paliativos primarios incluyen el diagnóstico, el tratamiento paliativo, la planificación anticipada, la gestión y coordinación de intervenciones multidisciplinarias y la transferencia a cuidados especializados cuando sea necesario y haya disponibilidad para ello. Al respecto, en este artículo se exponen brevemente algunos elementos sobre el tema y se propone, además, un algoritmo práctico y fácil de aplicar en la atención primaria, que permitirá identificar a la población aquejada por dolencias en esas etapas, con diferenciación en cuanto a afecciones neoplásicas o no neoplásicas.

Nowadays, the offer of specialized palliative care has been overcome by the demand, reason why care to patients with terminal illness or in end-of-life period is usually in charge of the doctor from primary care level. In that sense, primary palliative care includes the diagnosis, palliative treatment, early planning, administration and coordination of multidisciplinary interventions and referring to specialized care when it is necessary and the service is available. In this respect, some elements on the topic are shortly exposed in this work and, also, a practical and easy implementation algorithm in primary care is proposed that will allow identifying population suffering from pain in those stages, with differentiation as for neoplastic or non neoplastic affections.

Implementing palliative care, based on family-centered care, in a highly complex neonatal unit

Abstract Objective: To describe the causes and circumstances of neonatal mortality and determine whether the implementation of a palliative care protocol has improved the quality of end-of-life care. Methods: A retrospective observational study including all patient mortalities between January 2009 and December 2019. Cause of death and characteristics of support during the dying process were collected. Two periods, before and after the implementation of a palliative care protocol, were compared. Results: There were 344 deaths. Congenital malformations were the most frequent cause of death (45.6 %). Most patients died after the transition to palliative care (74.4 %). The most frequently cited criteria for initiating transition of care was poor neurocognitive prognosis (47.2 %). Parents accompanied their children in the dying process in 72 % of cases. Twenty-three percent of patients died outside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit after being transferred to a private room to enhance family intimacy. After the addition of the palliative care protocol, statistically significant differences were observed in the support and patient experience during the dying process. Conclusions: The most frequent causes of death were severe congenital malformations. Most patients died accompanied by their parents after the transition to palliative care. The implementation of a palliative care protocol helped to improve the family-centered end-of-life care.

Dying with end stage kidney disease: factors associated with place of death on a palliative care program / Fim de vida na doença renal terminal: fatores associados ao local de óbito num programa de cuidados paliativos

Abstract Introduction: End of life care of patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) may be particularly challenging and requires the intervention of a specialized palliative care team (PCT). Objective: To characterize the population of ESKD patients referred to a PCT and evaluate the determinants of planned dying at home. Methods: We performed a retrospective observational cohort study of all patients with ESKD referred to our PCT between January 2014 and December 2021 (n = 60) and further characterized those with previously known ESKD regarding place of death (n = 53). Results: The majority of the patients were female and the median age was 84 years. Half of the patients were on conservative treatment, 43% were on chronic hemodialysis, and the remainder underwent hemodialysis on a trial basis and were subsequently suspended. Of those with previously known ESKD, 18% died at home and neither gender, age, cognition, performance status, comorbidities, CKD etiology, or treatment modality were associated with place of death. Anuria was significantly associated with dying at the hospital as was shorter time from dialysis suspension and death. Although not reaching statistical significance, we found a tendency towards a longer duration of palliative care follow-up in those dying at home. Conclusion: Dying at home is possible in a palliative domiciliary program regardless of age, gender, etiology of CKD, major comorbidities, and treatment modality. Anuria and shorter survival from RRT withdrawal may be limiting factors for planned dying at home. A longer follow-up by palliative care may favor dying at home.

Resumo Introdução: Os cuidados de fim de vida em doentescom doença renal terminal (DRT) podem ser desafiantes e necessitar do apoio de uma equipa especializada em cuidados paliativos (ECP). Objetivo: Caracterizar a população de doentes com DRT encaminhada à ECP e avaliar os determinantes para um fim de vida planeado no domicílio. Métodos: Realizámos um estudo de coorte observacional retrospectivo dos doentes com DRT encaminhados à ECP entre janeiro/2014 e dezembro/2021 (n = 60) e caracterizámos aqueles com DRT previamente conhecida relativamente ao local de fim de vida (n = 53). Resultados: A maioria dos pacientes eram mulheres comidade mediana de 84 anos. Metade dos doentes encontrava-se em tratamento conservador, 43% em hemodiálise crónica e os restantes suspenderam diálise iniciada agudamente. Daqueles com DRT previamente conhecida, 18% morreram em casa. Não foi objetivada associação entre género, idade, cognição, status funcional, comorbilidades, etiologia da DRC ou modalidade de tratamento da DRT e o local de óbito. A anúria e a menor sobrevida após suspensão de diálise associaram-se a um fim de vida no hospital e verificámos uma tendência para o fim de vida em casa nos doentes com mais tempo de acompanhamento pela ECP. Conclusão: O fim de vida no domicílio é possível num programa domiciliário de cuidados paliativos, independentemente de idade, sexo, etiologia da DRC, principais comorbilidades e modalidade de tratamento. A anúria e o menor tempo de sobrevida após suspensão da TRS podem ser fatores limitantes. Um acompanhamento mais longo em cuidados paliativos pode favorecer o fim de vida no domicílio.

Percepción sobre la formación en cuidados paliativos de los estudiantes de las especializaciones de Cirugía general en Colombia / Perception of palliative care training among students of General Surgery specializations in Colombia

Introducción. Los cuidados paliativos responden al sufrimiento de pacientes terminales y requieren personal entrenado para la intervención. Forman parte de la actividad en cirugía, sin embargo, no encontramos información sobre la educación de postgrado en cirugía en Colombia. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el nivel de conocimientos en cuidados paliativos, la calidad de la formación y las estrategias pedagógicas en los residentes. Métodos. Estudio observacional con recolección de la información autodiligenciada por medio electrónico. Resultados. Participaron 228 residentes, 7,8 % mencionaron asistir a rotación en cuidado paliativo y 66,6 % tener contacto con especialistas en cuidados paliativos. El 30,7 % no identificó una estrategia pedagógica clara. El 29,3 % tuvo alto nivel de conocimiento y 21,1 % adecuada calidad de formación. El 83,8 % tuvo un alto nivel en el manejo de obstrucción intestinal. No hubo asociación entre el nivel de conocimiento y las variables evaluadas (p>0,05). Conclusiones. Ni el aprendizaje recibido, ni el año de entrenamiento tuvieron efecto en el nivel percibido de conocimiento. Las competencias en cuidados paliativos, sus métodos y la calidad del aprendizaje son deficientes a nivel de postgrado en cirugía en Colombia. Probablemente está en un currículo oculto. Es necesario implementar estrategias pedagógicas en los currículos de estudios de los programas de formación de cirujanos.

Introduction. Palliative care responds to the suffering of terminal patients and requires trained personnel for intervention. They are part of the activity in surgery; however, we did not find information about postgraduate education in surgery in Colombia. The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge in palliative care, the quality of training and pedagogical strategies in residents. Methods. Observational study with self-completed information collection by electronic means. Results. A total of 228 residents participated, 7.8% mentioned a palliative care rotation and 66.6% mentioned having contact with palliative care specialists; 30.7% did not identify a clear pedagogical strategy; 29.3% had a high level of knowledge and 21.1% had adequate quality of training; 83.8% had a high level in the management of intestinal obstruction. There was no association between the level of knowledge and the variables evaluated (p>0.05). Conclusions. Neither the learning received nor the year of training had an effect on the perceived level of knowledge. Competencies in palliative care, its methods and the quality of learning are deficient at the postgraduate level in surgery in Colombia. It is probably on a hidden resume. It is necessary to implement pedagogical strategies in the study curricula of surgeon training programs.

Analysis of palliative care needs and related factors of family caregivers of patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease / 重庆医学

Objective To explore the needs and influencing factors of palliative care among primary car-egivers in families of patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease(AD).Methods The main caregivers of 148 patients with advanced AD who were diagnosed at the Memory Clinic of this hospital from January 2021 to December 2022 were randomly selected as the research subjects.A self-designed questionnaire on palliative care needs was used for investigation and statistical analysis.Results The total score of the main caregivers for palliative medical needs was(91.88±15.19),with a score indicator of 66.57％.The highest score indicator was the demand for professional medical care guidance,and the lowest was the demand for social support.There were statistical differences in the scores of palliative medical care needs of caregivers with different a-ges,education level,relationship with patients,nursing experience,death of relatives and friends,annual family income,medical payment method and physical condition(P＜0.05).The results of linear regression analysis showed that education level,relationship with patients and nursing experience were the influencing factors of family caregivers'easing medical needs(P＜0.05).Conclusion The main caregivers of advanced AD patients have a high demand for palliative care,and there is an urgent need to strengthen palliative care services.

Summary of evidence to facilitate the implementation of advance care planning among advanced cancer patients / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Advance care planning(ACP)is designed to ensure that patients lacking autonomous decision-making capacity receive medical services in accordance with their expectations and preferences.Individuals with advanced cancer are a crucial target for ACP implementation.However,the current practice of ACP in this group in China is suboptimal,demanding high-quality implementation evidence to strengthen ACP in the clinical practice of patients with advanced cancer.The existing literature can be summarized into 27 pieces of evidence across 7 dimensions,including initiation time,intervention content,intervention providers,intervention modalities,communication skills,outcome indicators,and environmental support.The aforementioned evidence could provide crucial support for improving ACP implementation for patients with advanced cancer.Subsequent research efforts should integrate patient preferences and explore the most suitable implementation strategies for ACP in the Chinese population with advanced cancer,considering diverse aspects such as traditional culture,ACP education and training,legislative support,and healthcare system refinement.

Research and evaluation on development model of hospice care at home and abroad / 实用医学杂志

Palliative and hospice care is an emerging medical care model for the development of modern medicine,and its emergence is not only a sign of social demand and the development of human civilization,but also an important manifestation of the change in the modern medical model.Hospice care is the final stage of palliative care,which is of great significance for the end-of-life treatment of incurable diseases.Palliative and hospice care has become an independent discipline in many countries,and its development has been rapid.However,the develop-ment of hospice and palliative care in China is not satisfactory,and the lack of money and human resources are the main reasons limiting its development.Many scholars have carried out a lot of useful practices in this regard.How to explore a road of hospice and palliative care development suitable for China′s national conditions is an urgent problem to be solved.By reviewing domestic and foreign literature,this paper summarizes the development mode and payment method of palliative and hospice care abroad,identifies the challenges encountered in the practice of hospice care in China,and draws on the development experience of palliative and hospice care in foreign countries.We aimed to identify pain points and difficulties faced in developing palliative and hospice care in China,so as to better serve patients at the end of life,gradually promote the concept of palliative and hospice care,and contribute to the sustainable development of palliative and hospice care in China.

Enhancing quality management of regional palliative care services: a case study of Shanghai palliative care service management center / 中华全科医师杂志

Palliative care, as an emerging discipline, is rapidly advancing in China. However, progress in quality management has been relatively slow, hindering the homogeneity of palliative care services in a certain degree. This article takes the Shanghai Palliative Care Service Management Center as an example, outlines its practical model and achievements in the field of quality management since its establishment, and further analyzes the existing problems based on the city-wide palliative care service quality evaluation results. The article summarizes relevant experiences and offers corresponding insights, enriching research cases and practical support in the quality management of palliative care, which may have practical application value for enhancing the homogeneity of palliative care services in the region.

Concept analysis of good death with Chinese cultural characteristics from the perspective of palliative care / 中国医学伦理学

Focusing on the field of palliative care，the Rodgers evolutionary concept analysis method was used to analyze the literature related to good death in the context of Chinese culture.The development history and application，definition and characteristics，influencing factors and their impacts，measuring indicators and tools of the concept of good death were elaborated，and further discussions were conducted.Good death refers to an individual’s peaceful and painless journey towards death，without subjective pain or concern，and calmness under the premise of sufficient longevity，while receiving care and companionship during the process of death from family，especially children and grandchildren，as well as achieving moral fulfilment and transcendence.The characteristics of good death in the context of Chinese traditional culture include the indirect expression of physical and mental pain being “understood” and properly handled，the construction of dying dignity based on virtue rather than autonomy，the emphasis on filial piety and emotional connections in the family，making after-death arrangements and realizing intergenerational inheritance，as well as the emphasis on achieving the integrity of life at the moment of death，which have distinct Chinese cultural characteristics.In the future，the connotation and extension of the concept of good death should be further explored，so as to assist in the development of localized theory and practice systems of good death.

Reflection on general and innovative education of palliative care in China / 中国医学伦理学

With the process of China’s aging population intensifying， palliative care， as an important guarantee for improving the quality of life of terminally ill patients， is receiving more and more social attention， and the demand is constantly increasing. Palliative care needs versatile professionals， and general education can enhance people’s awareness and understanding of it， enabling more people to understand， accept， and participate in palliative care. With the advancement of knowledge and technology in palliative care， the traditional cramming education models are no longer able to meet the actual needs. Therefore， there is an urgent need to innovate palliative care education strategies. By analyzing the current problems in the general education of palliative care in China， this paper proposed thoughts and suggestions for general and innovative education of palliative care in several aspects， such as establishing general and innovative education systems and evaluation systems of palliative care， diversifying educational contents and methods， strengthening medical staffs training， promoting diversified student groups， and strengthening the popularization of palliative care knowledge among the public.

Changes in the Quality of Life of Ambulatory Patients with Locally Advanced/Distant Metastatic Cancer Who Underwent Two Weeks of Rehabilitation in a Palliative Care Unit

Objective: To clarify changes in the quality of life (QOL) of ambulatory patients with locally advanced/metastatic cancer who underwent rehabilitation in a palliative care unit. Methods: Patients aged 18 years or older who were admitted to the Palliative Care Unit, had a Functional Ambulation Category of 1 (assisted ambulation) or higher, and were assessed at admission and two weeks after admission using the Comprehensive Quality of Life Outcome (CoQoLo) short version, were included in the study. Results: Twenty-one patients completed the 2-week assessment. Ten subjects were male, with a median age of 78 years. The Functional Independence Measure cognitive items significantly declined 2 weeks after admission, but the CoQoLo total score was not significantly different. In addition, the rate of change in the CoQoLo item “Being respected as an individual” was significantly higher in the ≥4 days/week rehabilitation intervention group than in the <4 days/week group. Conclusion: This study has shown that it is possible to maintain the QOL of ambulatory patients with cancer who received rehabilitation in a palliative care unit.