Alimentação na pessoa em fim de vida: análise de conceito

Abstract

Introduction: From caring at the end of life, an important theme emerges - feeding at the end-of-life - considering the different changes in the basic human need to “eat and drink”. Aim: Present a critical analysis of an episode of the practice that refers to end-of-life care, based on a theoretical-conceptual review of the concept of food. Materials and Methods: From the episode described, the concept of feeding emerges, referring to the basic human need (NHB) to “eat and drink” by Virginia Henderson and the concept of evidence, approached by the June H. Larrabee Evidence Based Practice model. A theoretical-conceptual analysis is developed according to the Walker and Avant conceptual analysis method. Results: The need for more skills and resources in the assessment, synthesis and dissemination of the best evidence in practice by nurses is noted. Skills and resources that are based on the analysis of concepts, so the Walter and Avant method proves to be a vital instrument in the foundation of the practice in evidence, as defended by Larrabee in his model. Conclusion: This analysis made it possible to critically assess the best standard of care with regard to end-of-life feeding, assuming it as an indicator of the evolution of the health status of the person being cared for.