Bioethical aspects and physical therapy in oncological palliative care

Abstract

Objective. Identify the bioethical aspects inserted in physical therapy practice in oncology palliative care. Method. This is an exploratory, descriptive, and qualitative study, with the participation of 11 physical therapists from an oncology hospital, who answered a semi-structured questionnaire applied in person. Result. Participants recognize the importance of Physical therapy in the health team and pointed out that physical therapy interventions have a positive impact on the patient's quality of life. However, the findings revealed gaps in previous training in palliative care, which results in challenges that need to be faced in the relationship with the patient, family, and team. The possibilities and limitations of intervention were also associated with the patient's clinical condition and the physical therapist's relationship skills, both in the relationship with the patient and family members, as well as with the team. The approach to the principles and guidelines of this approach also showed importance in the situations faced, particularly in those involving death and dying. Conclusion. The findings demonstrate that Bioethics has a lot to contribute to the performance of Physical therapy in cancer palliative care, particularly in end-of-life care.