Analysis of the historical evolution of the concept of palliative care: a scoping review

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the historical evolution of the concept of palliative care and identify its essential elements. Methods: This is a scope review based on the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer’s manual, which included the definitions of palliative care from scientific articles selected from health databases and portals. Twenty-one studies were selected for analysis. The IRaMuTeQ® software was used to group the data. Results: From 1993 to 2020, the most cited definition of palliative care was that of the World Health Organization. The palliative approach was implemented in the physical, biopsychosocial and spiritual spheres for patients with acute or chronic illnesses to promote comfort, dignity and quality of life. The essential elements identified in the definitions were life, care, quality, family, multidisciplinary team, comfort, and relief. Conclusion: It was found that the definition of palliative care has matured, by adding elements to guarantee a dignified quality of life, regardless of type of disease, and integrating family and interprofessional team in this process.