title: On withholding nutrition and hydration in the terminally ill: has palliative medicine gone too far?
abstract: This paper explores ethical issues relating to the management of patients who are terminally ill and unable to maintain their own nutrition and hydration. A policy of sedation without hydration or nutrition is used in palliative medicine under certain circumstances. The author argues that this policy is dangerous, medically, ethically and legally, and can be disturbing for relatives. The role of the family in management is discussed. This issue requires wide debate by the public and the profession.
authors.forename: G M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Craig
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D034462:Dissent and Disputes; D034723:Double Effect Principle; D004989:Ethics; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005066:Euthanasia, Passive; D005190:Family; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000592:standards*; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000592:standards*; D010288:Parenteral Nutrition / Q000592:standards*; D010358:Patient Participation; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000592:standards*; D035501:Uncertainty; D028761:Withholding Treatment
chemical_list: D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives