Artificial nutrition and hydration: guidance in end of life care for adults

Authors:
CAMPBELL Colin, PARTRIDGE Richard
Publisher:
National Council for Palliative Care
Publication year:
2011
Pagination:
33p.
Place of publication:
London

Artificial nutrition and hydration (AHN) has the potential to prolong life, and improve general well-being. For some patients with life threatening illnesses this may be advantageous even if the underlying disease process continues to deteriorate. This joint publication from NCPC and The Association of Palliative Medicine anticipates the Mental Capacity Act (2005) which is legally binding during 2007. It is a practical guide for all those who administer artificial hydration explaining the terminology rights and ethical framework; it also includes five case studies and various methods of dealing with ANH from notifying decision-makers to administering ANH in methods other than orally. It identifies some of the practical, legal and ethical issues that may arise when artificial nutrition and hydration is being considered and contains two illustrative case studies. It also includes some suggested approaches to opening up discussion about these important issues. This document is intended to help health and social care staff in all settings such as care homes, community hospitals, hospitals and hospices.

Subject terms:
hospices, medical treatment, nutrition, older people, care homes, end of life care, hydration;
Content type:
practice guidance
Location(s):
United Kingdom
ISBN print:
978 1 898915 53 9

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