CUIDADOS PALIATIVOS: DIRETIVAS ANTECIPADAS DE VONTADE SOB A ÓTICA JURÍDICA

Abstract

The purpose of this monograph is to analyze Advance Directives from the perspective of the Brazilian legal system. It is a bibliographical study with a descriptive and exploratory approach, contextualizing the right to make decisions in the face of the end of life, the historical trajectory of palliative care for terminally ill patients and the Advance Directives. It is part of the context of Constitutional Law, Human Rights, Civil Law and Bioethical Law. The conclusion is that advance Directives are an instrument that guarantees the right to a dignified death. They ensure respect for the natural course of life and its end. It helps to ensure that the individual's choice to alleviate suffering and avoid interventions and treatments that only prolong life without providing a cure is respected. Furthermore, it was made evident that there is a lack of specific legislation to support patients and health professionals in using Advance Directives as a valid legal document.