PATIENTS OF THE PAIN RELIEF AND PALLIATIVE CARE PROGRAMME: REASONS AND MEANING FOR NURSES

Abstract

Objective: An exploratory study with a qualitative approach, whose purpose was to understand the reasons and meanings that working in the Pain Relief and Palliative Care Programme has for nursing professionals. Methods: By using a Delphi technique, a sociodemographic questionnaire and open questions were applied to a sample of 32 professionals of Family Health Centers of Chillán. Based on Minayo's theme analysis, they originated two Likert Scales. Results: Among the main concepts obtained are commitment, knowledge, dedication, vocation and the idea of fulfilling a certain profile; this means wearing yourself out and not remaining indifferent to pain; they recognize undergraduate training, but they need more training, since it is a complex area; patients face complications and it is tough to face them alone; giving the patients peace and calm allows them to have serenity in their last moments; thus, the emotional, spiritual and physical burden is more bearable; period of great vulnerability; the nurse's role becomes important in human as well as clinical terms as emotional support is provided in times of death and mourning; effective coordination between levels of care is required; not all resources are available; there are time limitations; therefore, times must be assigned. Conclusions: Learning about nurses' meanings and professional and/or personal reasons will allow for the development of strategies and will contribute to undergraduate and post-graduate formation in this area; it is necessary to increase the number of nurses dedicated to this programme so as to optimize the quality of nursing care and meet the needs of patients when faced with an advanced incurable cancer disease.