The role of the physiotherapist in palliative care: a narrative review / O papel do fisioterapeuta no cuidado paliativo: uma revisão narrativa

Abstract

Introduction: The physiotherapist plays a key role within the context of the palliative care (PC), acting at all levels of care, promoting pain relief, encouraging independence, among many other benefits that directly reflect the quality of life of patients. Objective: To identify the role of physical therapists in PC, as well as their main conducts according to each phase of the disease progression. Method: Bibliographic search based on searches in MedLine databases, CAPES and LILACS journals between 2000 and 2020 using the keywords: palliative care; physiotherapy; quality of life. Results:  For totally dependent individuals, it is important to provide comfort, prevent immobility and its complications, as well as optimize the respiratory system. For the dependent but ambulant patient, the main purpose of the physiotherapist is to maintain the ability to move, as well as self-care and functionality. In relation to independent but vulnerable individuals, the biggest challenge is to prevent damage, as well as improve functional capacity and gain muscle strength. For each degree of functionality, a list of physiotherapeutic behaviors was arranged, divided into three categories: respiratory, motor and comfort. Conclusion:The physiotherapist is an essential professional within the context of PC, it is through him that the individual's functionality is increased or maintained . According to the literature, the measures do not farmacológic the are also able to promote pain relief providing comfort, reflecting the increased quality of life and well-being of the patient as a whole.