PALLIATIVE CARE IN HOME CARE: indication of palliation

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the conditions of patients monitored by the “Programa Melhor em Casa” considering the criteria for indicating palliative care. Method: Cross-sectional study carried out in São Luís, Maranhão, with a sample of 71 patients. An instrument containing socioeconomic variables and the Palliative Care Screening Tool Scale was used to indicate palliation. Results: Most patients were female (56,34%), single (46,48%), complete primary education (43,66%), out of the workforce (36,63%), family income between 1 to 2 minimum wages (78,87%), aged between 70-86 years (32,40%). As for the underlying disease, 45,07% have stroke sequelae, 54,93% have associated diseases, cardiovascular and metabolic ones being frequent (37,90%), 59,15% need help and 69,10% have a degree of dependence 4. Conclusion: The palliation criteria indicated that most patients were considered eligible for Palliative Care, which contributes to the implementation of qualified interventions by the multidisciplinary team.