CONCEPTIONS AND PRACTICES OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS REGARDING PALLIATIVE CARE

Objective: to understand the conceptions and practices of Primary Health Care professionals regarding palliative care. Method: descriptive-exploratory study, with a qualitative approach carried out with professionals working in three Basic Units in a city in southern Brazil. Data were collected in June 2021, through face-to-face, audio-recorded interviews with 36 health professionals selected for convenience and subjected to content analysis, thematic modality. Results: many Primary Care professionals, especially community workers, technicians and nursing assistants, have little knowledge or a distorted view of palliative care, but in their daily lives they assist patients and families. Final considerations: although not sufficiently prepared, health professionals need to be together, guide and assist users and families who need palliative care, they therefore need to be made aware of the importance and benefits of palliative care and be properly equipped to provide this assistance that values its principles.