Communication in palliative care as a factor in improving patients’ quality of life

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize the evidence available in the literature that demonstrates how PC communication impacts on improving the patient's quality of life. Methods: This is an Integrative Literature Review of articles from 2019 to 2024. To develop the research question, the PICo strategy was used, with the following question: Is communication in palliative care an instrument that affects the quality of life of patients? The search for articles was carried out in the LILACS, MEDLINE, BDENF, SCIELO and PUBMED databases. Results: After the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 819 articles were obtained, with the final sample consisting of 09 studies. High-quality communication between physicians and patients is developed through practices that occur at the individual level, at the team level, at the system level and with the participation of patients and family members. Studies confirm that to improve communication in palliative care and provide effective and safe care, the use of tools is of utmost importance to provide a quality of life for these patients who no longer see any prospect of a cure. Final considerations: An appropriate and sensitive approach is essential to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.