Definition of therapeutic limits and do-not-resuscitate decision in Oncology: the perception of different healthcare professionals in a portuguese hospital
Cristiana Honrado-Martins 1, Marta Viana-Pereira 1, Ma. Manuel Pereira 1, Diogo Lopes 1, Catarina Ferreira 1, Jorge Rodrigues 1, Catarina Portela 1
1 Serviço de Oncologia Médica, ULS de Braga, Braga, Portugal
*Correspondence: Cristiana Honrado-Martins. Email: cristiana.honrado.martins@ulsb-min-saude.pt
Abstract
Introduction: The definition of therapeutic limits and the establishment of do-not-resuscitate decisions are complex decisions that involve multidimensional assessments and the consideration of individual, prognostic, and ethical factors. In cancer patients, this is often necessary in advanced stages of the disease, in the absence of therapeutic options, and with a prognosis of short-term irreversibility. Analysis and Methods: The terminology used and the clarity of the information are essential in the management of cancer patients by multidisciplinary teams, with different healthcare professionals from various fields. This project aims to assess the perception of different healthcare professionals regarding the definition of therapeutic limits and do-not-resuscitate decisions in cancer patients, through the application of an anonymous questionnaire with responses based on a Likert scale and one open-ended question. Discussion: These data will be analyzed with the goal of developing more robust future tools for therapeutic decision-making. It is expected that this could positively contribute to the prevention of dysthanasia and the minimization of suffering for patients and their families.
