de Almeida Barcellos, Ruy: Palliative Care and Spirituality

Knowledge about palliative care is recommended for healthcare professionals in charge of the care of critically ill patients, who should be evaluated daily, since the introduction of new treatments may or may not be beneficial for them. Discussions among the healthcare team, related to prognosis and treatment objectives, must be carefully evaluated together with patients and their families. The adoption in the intensive care unit of protocols related to patients at the end of life is fundamental. Furthermore, patients and family members must be informed that palliative care involves the best possible treatment for that specific situation, as well as respecting their wishes considering cultural, social and spiritual issues.