Relatório de estágio em 3 tipologias de cuidados paliativos

Abstract

The combination of a greater lifespan together with an increase in the number of chronic conditions brings as a consequence the augmentation of the occurrence of severe, incurable and progressive diseases. From oncology to organ failure, neurological disease, and dementia, across all age groups, these conditions have a deep impact in the fabric of all Portuguese families and make palliative care (PC) a mainstay of the care that must be provided to the afflicted. Having more than 22 years of professional experience in the area of oncology, I am permanently exposed to the need of addressing the prevention and treatment of the physical, psychological, social and spiritual suffering of the patients. This is what triggered my wish to start a Master’s Degree in PC. My aim was to increase my competence in this area, improve the timely referencing of the affected patients and eventually be a part of a PC team where the combination of my human and technical skills can exert a positive influence. I have chosen an internship because I believe that taking the theoretical knowledge to practice brings consistency to what was learned and promotes its integration, together with a critical sense, into a professional framework. Dividing the internship into the three types of PC services had the purpose of making contact and understanding how to provide care in each of these different environments and their interconnection, taking into account the needs, preferences and resources of the patient and his/her family. Communication, teamwork, and the ethical and social responsibilities were paramount in this internship. I believe that I have acquired and integrated a substantial body of knowledge related to this field of expertise, dealing with complex subjects, and cooperating in the development of solutions that are adequate and contribute to improvements in the quality of the care that is provided to alleviate the suffering of the patients at the end of their lives.

Date of Award	15 Jun 2021
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Cristina Maria Alves Dias Henriques (Supervisor)