PALLIATIVE PROFESSIONALS: STRESSORS IMPOSED ON THE TEAM IN THE DEATH AND DYING PROCESS

Abstract

Objective: to know the multidisciplinary palliative care team’s perception about stressors in the death and dying process. Method: a qualitative, exploratory-descriptive study, carried out from the perspective of Betty Neuman’s theory. Data were collected using online semi-structured interview with nine palliative professionals from two health institutions between February and November 2020. Results: a grid of analysis composed of the three Neuman System Models was organized, i.e., environment, person and health, emerging the categories: Self-perception for care in death and dying; Communication between team, patient and family-minimizing stress in palliative care; Personal and professional stressors and health structure. Conclusion: the main stressor source referred to communication as an intrateam relationship and with patient and family. The pandemic was considered as a potential impact of relational and communication difficulties, and the fragility of health management support was linked to palliative multidisciplinary teams.