Ethics, artificial nutrition, and hydration in terminal patients

Abstract

Given the lack of scientific evidence, decisions regarding the administration of artificial nutrition and hydration in terminally ill patients constitute an important ethical dilemma due to the conflict between “treat” and “care” perspectives and the varying usage depending on the legal and cultural background across countries. This study aims to explain whether this practice configures a basic care intervention or a futile medical treatment. Therefore, we review the national guidelines and codes of ethics from several European countries. Countries such as Portugal, Italy, and Poland view it as a basic care intervention, whereas France, England, Norway, Ireland, Germany, Finland, Netherlands, Belgium, and Switzerland, as a medical treatment. Moreover, countries such as Romania, Croatia, and Hungary lack such legal framework. The different approaches regarding the care of terminally ill patients can reflect differences on cultural perspectives.