Perceção das necessidades espirituais nas pessoas com alteração comunicativa em cuidados paliativos

Abstract

Introduction: The expression of spiritual needs in individuals receiving Palliative Care (PC) is essential for quality of life and the construction of a legacy. Communicative impairment can be common in the final phase of life, and this study is important for giving voice to all those who find themselves in communicative vulnerability. Objective: To explore, from the perspective of individuals with communicative impairment in PC, their perceptions regarding their spiritual needs. Specific objectives: Characterize the spiritual needs of individuals with communicative impairment in PC; Identify the communicative styles and languages used by individuals with communicative impairment in PC to express their needs; Identify how these needs can be fulfilled. Methodology: The study was based on a qualitative methodology, according to the “Grounded Theory” approach. The study participants were adults, cognitively capable, with communicative impairment. Data collection was carried out through video- recorded interviews, observation, questionnaires, and field diaries. Data collection instruments included sociodemographic and clinical information, the GES-SECPAL questionnaire, and a semi-structured interview script. Data were analyzed following the assumptions of Grounded Theory. Results: Six individuals participated, aged between 56 and 91, with neurodegenerative and oncological diseases, facing the condition for a period ranging from 1 to 11 years. Spiritual needs were categorized into intra, inter, and transpersonal dimensions. Participants used low-tech devices and relied on non-verbal language to enrich their limited verbal communication. Respecting response time was crucial for the expression of spiritual needs. Discussion and Conclusion: This study significantly contributes to understanding how individuals in PC, especially those with communicative alterations, express and experience their spiritual needs. It emphasizes the importance of providing time and space for this expression, thereby promoting a more dignified and satisfactory experience at the end of life.

Date of Award	27 Nov 2023
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Ana Querido (Supervisor) & Natálie Iani Goldoni (Co-Supervisor)