Palliative care knowledge among medical students

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge of palliative care among medical students at three institutions in northern Minas Gerais. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study carried out with 320 students from the 1st, 6th and 11th terms, using a survey instrument on philosophy, pain, dyspnea, psychiatric problems, gastric problems and communication. The results were evaluated by the mean percentage of correct answers, with unsatisfactory answers being up to 50%, acceptable between 51% and 70%, desirable between 71% and 80%, and excellent above 80%. The number of correct answers grew as the terms progressed, but with unsatisfactory or acceptable means. Although the students in the 11th term had completed all of the course’s theory, their mean scores were inadequate. These results highlight the need to implement the provisions of CNE/CES Resolution 3/2022 of the National Education Council in undergraduate medical courses to encourage assertive behavior in palliative care.