Ethical challenges of symptom management in palliative care: a critical reflection

Abstract

Palliative care is a field of knowledge capable of contributing to effective symptom management.
However, it also poses ethical challenges in sensitive areas such as therapeutic obstinacy, the withholding
of food and hydration, and palliative sedation. A narrative review and a critical reflection were
conducted based on bibliographic research in major databases, complemented by relevant articles,
books, and websites. Following the search, 69 articles were selected to develop each topic of the results
and discussion, enabling a critical reflection on ethical dilemmas in palliative care with an emphasis on
symptom management. Symptom control is a cornerstone of palliative care. The best care for patients in
palliative settings is person-centered rather than disease-centered. Clinical practice grounded in ethical
principles is fundamental.