Evaluation of morphine and oxygen therapy use in the management of dyspnea in end-of-life patients at a regional hospital in the Brazilian Federal District: a descriptive study

Abstract

Dyspnea is a frequent symptom in patients facing life-threatening illnesses and is associated with greater suffering and worsening quality of life. However, it is a symptom that is poorly identified and not adequately treated at the end of life. Morphine is an option for pharmacological therapy, which can be associated with non-pharmacological interventions such as oxygen therapy and psychosocial support. In clinical practice, there are still barriers to the use of opioids to manage this symptom. Aim: to evaluate the use of morphine and oxygen therapy to control dyspnea in end-of-life patients at a regional hospital in the Federal District. Methodology: observational, cross-sectional and retrospective study, which included adult patients with criteria for palliative and end-of-life care, who died between 01/07/2022 and 31/12/2022. Results: Of the 45 patients who met criteria for palliative care, 29 had clinical signs of dyspnea in the 24 hours prior to death (64.44%). In this same group, the use of morphine was identified in 24 patients (53.33%), while the use of oxygen therapy was reported in 38 patients (84.44%). Morphine was used more frequently in patients with dyspnea compared to those without the symptom (19 vs 5; p<0.05). Conclusion: The results point to the high prevalence of dyspnea in end-of-life patients and, despite the efficacy of morphine in relieving respiratory distress, its use is still limited, highlighting the importance of continued education and training of healthcare teams as fundamental strategies to improve care for these patients.