Artificial nutrition and hydration

Abstract

Hydration and nutrition are essential for the maintenance of life. Discontinuation of artificial support can result in distress for patients, family members, and healthcare providers. Proponents of maintaining hydration argue that hydration is a basic human need and can reduce and prevent dehydration-induced delirium, opioid neurotoxicity, and/or fatigue in terminally ill patients. Opponents have argued that parenteral hydration is burdensome and prolongs the dying process. Islamic law does not allow the withholding or withdrawal of basic nutrition because this would result in death by starvation. Terminal patients should continue receiving nutrition, hydration, and general supportive care without discrimination.