Abstract

DOMINGUES, Glaucia Regina et al. The role of the psychologist in the treatment of terminal patients and their families. Psicol. hosp. (São Paulo) [online]. 2013, vol.11, n.1, pp.02-24. ISSN 2175-3547.

Proximity to death can cause distress and undermine one’s ability to bear the pressure of tolerating an irreversible diagnosis. The present work aims to shine light upon the way in which psychologists can help terminal patients and their families to cope with the feelings generated by such a delicate situation. This study, the mature fruit of readings and reflections on the role of the psychologist in the treatment of terminal patients, was oriented by the following question: What is the relevance of a psychology professional in situations of imminent grief? By the end of the research, the conclusion is arrived at that the psychologist is important because he or she: 1. engages in professional analysis of the terminal patient and the patient’s family; 2. interprets the patient’s communication to the family; 3. Communicates parameters for expectations; etc. It is understood that the chief task of the psychologist is to comfort the patients and their families and provide a humanizing element, by listening and speaking, in order to provide new insights and guide sentiments.

Keywords : Palliative care; Terminal patients; Hospital psychologist; Thanatology.

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