Terminal Cancer Patient: Perception and Approach of a Physiotherapist

Abstract

Introduction: Physiotherapy has been increasingly conquering its place in Oncology, developing an important role regarding the care for terminal diseases patients, who have no therapeutic possibilities for cure. Objective: To understand the interpersonal relationship established between the physiotherapist and the terminal cancer patient. Methods: The present study is a case-study qualitative research, in which information was collected by means of a semi-structured interview. Fourteen collaborators composed this research, both physiotherapy educators and professionals, who care for terminal cancer patients at a hospital in Porto Alegre, Brazil. For the analysis of data, the content-analysis methodology was used. Results: The collaborators reveal that it is difficult not to create a bond with patients, because the time of familiarity, the touch and the situation help for having a differential and more emotional relationship. Conclusion: The results revealed that the relationship established between the physiotherapist and the patient is of extreme importance for both of them and it is evidenced in this study as a relationship of friendship, affection and understanding, necessary for the patient therapy, so that he/she feels important, beloved, and not abandoned. This research shows that the role of the physiotherapist before the terminal cancer patient goes far beyond their technical work and treats much more than the physical condition of the patient.