Ethical conduct and terminal care

Abstract

Given its peculiarities, terminality highlights the need for an individualization of the therapeutic plan and integrality of assistance in health care. This article analyzed 23 scientific publications with thematics related to terminality and palliative care and discussed the therapeutic approach to the terminally ill patient and the incorporation of different integral practices in health. We sought to evidence that recognizing the characteristics of terminality makes it possible to establish the adequate prognostic study and implement a plan of care that supplies the necessities of the terminally ill patient, with care based of bioethical principles, respecting the will and particularities of the individual. We conclude that the palliative care constitutes an important instrument in managing biopsychosocial and spiritual angst of terminally ill people, by making ample assistance in care possible, promoting dignity, minimizing suffering, and bettering the quality of life of these patients and their families.