RIGHT TO LIFE AND PALLIATIVE CARE IN PATIENTS AT THE END OF LIFE: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

The terminality of life presents itself as a delicate and inevitable moment inherent to all human beings. At this stage, themes related to palliative care, dignity, and quality of life become evident, highlighting the need for an approach grounded in sensitivity and respect. In this context, the article aims to ethically discuss the rights associated with patients in the process of life’s terminality. A narrative bibliographic review was conducted in the PUBMED, Google Scholar, and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO) databases between September and October 2023, using the combined descriptors Palliative Care, Human Rights, Medical Ethics, and Terminally Ill Patient. Literary works entitled “Death Is a Day Worth Living” and “On Death and Dying” were also consulted. In conclusion, the relevance of human rights concerning terminally ill patients is highlighted, emphasizing the necessary role of healthcare professionals at different stages of the dying process through palliative care, whether by understanding patients’ rights or by providing comprehensive and humanized care.