PERCEPÇÃO DE PROFISSIONAIS DA SAÚDE QUE ATUAM NA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA SOBRE CUIDADOS PALIATIVOS

Palliative Care is an approach focused on the quality of life of patients and their families, when faced with life-threatening diseases. This article aims to analyze the perception of health professionals who work in Primary Care teams, about palliative care. A qualitative field study was conducted, using an interview with professionals who work in Family Health Strategy (ESF) teams of Basic Health Units (UBS) in a city located in the Health Region of the Far West of Santa Catarina. Fifteen health professionals participated in the study, including 6 nurses, 7 nursing technicians and 2 physicians. The analysis of the information obtained allowed us to understand the perceptions, feelings and challenges faced in the context of Palliative Care. Although professionals recognize the need for care focused on dignity, pain relief and support for patients at the end of life, there are limitations that compromise the quality of care. Such as gaps in professional training, lack of institutional protocols and lack of knowledge about Advance Directives (ADs). For Palliative Care to be effective and humanized, it is important to invest in Continuing Education, specific public policies, appreciation of the multidisciplinary team and strengthening of the support network for the patient and their family. This will make it possible to offer dignified, ethical and compassionate care that respects life in all its phases, including its outcome.