Perception of healthcare professionals about palliative care

Abstract

The objective of this exploratory and qualitative study was to analyze the perceptions of professionals working in primary health care about palliative care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, recorded, transcribed and validated individually, and the resulting data were analyzed thematically and systematized. The association between palliative care and the hospital environment was found to be very present in the discourses of participants. Moreover, it was possible to observe that the limited knowledge on the subject results in difficulty to identify early cases for which this care would be indicated. Among the fundamental points highlighted for this practice are team-based care, proximity to the territory, bonds and comprehensive care. It is suggested that this topic be included in the curricula of health courses.