Elaboración y propuesta de un instrumento para la detección de malestar emocional en enfermos al final de la vida

Abstract

To establish the methodology of work for a multidisciplinary group whose objective is to generate a tool to detect the emotional distress in patients at the end of their lives. Material and method: It describes the confi guration and composition of the researching team as well as its method of work throughout 2007 and 2008. The combination of multiple face to face meetings, online conferences and the review of related bibliography formed the model and the criteria used as the basis for the debate that lead to the elaboration of the instrument. Results: The questionnaire DME is presented, and consists 1) four questions addressed to the patient, and 2) observation by the health staff of signs that show the presence of emotional distress. At the moment, the instrument is under validation.