END-OF-LIFE CARE: A CRITICAL-REFLEXIVE REVIEW OF HOSPITAL PRACTICES

The objective of this study was to reflect on the principles of autonomy and dignity of the person, relating them to health ethics in hospital practices. The individual has the opportunity to plan their health care in advance through advance directives. In the doctor-patient relationship, this principle is fundamental, replacing the former authority of the doctor with consideration of the patient as an active participant in the treatment process. However, some doctors face difficulties in discussing end-of-life issues due to factors such as personal discomfort, lack of time, insufficient training, limited resources, or the perception that patients may feel uncomfortable. In this sense, we present a theoretical and practical construction of these principles and their benefits in quality of life. Although there is no law regulating advance directives in Brazil, the Federal Council of Medicine published Resolution 1995/2012, which guides advance care planning to facilitate the work of the health team when faced with complex ethical dilemmas from the beginning to the end of life, as the basis for shared care decisions.