CLINICAL-EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE AND SATISFACTION OF USERS OF THE HOME THERAPEUTIC AND PALLIATIVE CARE (HTPC) PROGRAM OF THE REFERENCE CENTER FOR AIDS IN THE STATE OF PARAÍBA

Abstract

Objective: The present study aims to assess the Home Therapeutic and Palliative Care (HTPC) Program for individuals with AIDS, developed in the Infectious Diseases Hospital Complex Clementino Fraga, João Pessoa, Paraíba. Material and Methods: An exploratory study was conducted using quantitative approach in 3 steps. At first, documentary analysis was done verifying the number of users served by the program. Then we interviewed the patients treated in 2012 to determine their clinical-epidemiological profile. Finally, users were subjected to a questionnaire assessing their degree of satisfaction with the program. From 2002 to 2012, 68 users were admitted, where there were 32 discharges and 29 deaths. Results: Of the 2012 patients, 50% were female and 50% male, 62.5% said they had gotten infected with the virus through sexual intercourse. The complexity of the treatment was the reason for the higher referral of patients to the program. 75% of caregivers had some family relationship with the patient. All respondents stated that the health team made everything clear and kept them informed about their treatment. Most respondents (87.5%) considered as satisfactory the assistance provided by the program. Conclusion: The HTPC program is currently, in Paraíba, an effective form of assistance. However, further systematic assessments of this program across the country are necessary, aimed at improving the implementation of actions and the quality of life of AIDS patients. In addition, a wider dissemination of the program in the reference services for AIDS in the state of Paraíba is needed. DESCRIPTORS SIDA. Home Nursing. Public Policies.